# board-of-assessors — 47 documents, concatenated for reading and search # # This is a CONVENIENCE BUNDLE, not a source. Every document below is # published separately and byte-identically; cite the individual file, # whose path is given in each header, rather than this bundle. # Index of all boards: https://lunenburgbudgetproject.org/minutes/INDEX.txt # The town's own scanned original is linked per document. ======================================================================================== DOCUMENT : 2023-01-31-agenda-22.txt BOARD : board-of-assessors DATE : 2023-01-31 KIND : agenda OUR COPY : https://lunenburgbudgetproject.org/docs/minutes/text/board-of-assessors/2023-01-31-agenda-22.txt TOWN PDF : https://www.lunenburgma.gov/AgendaCenter/ViewFile/Agenda/_01312023-22 ======================================================================================== ===PAGE 1=== ======================================================================================== DOCUMENT : 2023-01-31-minutes-22.txt BOARD : board-of-assessors DATE : 2023-01-31 KIND : minutes OUR COPY : https://lunenburgbudgetproject.org/docs/minutes/text/board-of-assessors/2023-01-31-minutes-22.txt TOWN PDF : https://www.lunenburgma.gov/AgendaCenter/ViewFile/Minutes/_01312023-22 ======================================================================================== ===PAGE 1=== ======================================================================================== DOCUMENT : 2023-02-22-agenda-23.txt BOARD : board-of-assessors DATE : 2023-02-22 KIND : agenda OUR COPY : https://lunenburgbudgetproject.org/docs/minutes/text/board-of-assessors/2023-02-22-agenda-23.txt TOWN PDF : https://www.lunenburgma.gov/AgendaCenter/ViewFile/Agenda/_02222023-23 ======================================================================================== ===PAGE 1=== ======================================================================================== DOCUMENT : 2023-02-22-minutes-23.txt BOARD : board-of-assessors DATE : 2023-02-22 KIND : minutes OUR COPY : https://lunenburgbudgetproject.org/docs/minutes/text/board-of-assessors/2023-02-22-minutes-23.txt TOWN PDF : https://www.lunenburgma.gov/AgendaCenter/ViewFile/Minutes/_02222023-23 ======================================================================================== ===PAGE 1=== ======================================================================================== DOCUMENT : 2023-03-28-agenda-24.txt BOARD : board-of-assessors DATE : 2023-03-28 KIND : agenda OUR COPY : https://lunenburgbudgetproject.org/docs/minutes/text/board-of-assessors/2023-03-28-agenda-24.txt TOWN PDF : https://www.lunenburgma.gov/AgendaCenter/ViewFile/Agenda/_03282023-24 ======================================================================================== ===PAGE 1=== LUNENBURG BOARD OF ASSESSORS MEETING NOTICE TUESDAY, MARCH 28, 2023 3:00 PM REMOTE PARTICIPATION MEETING AGENDA In accordance with the requirements of the Open Law Meeting Law, please be advised that this meeting will be recorded and can be found on the LunenburgAccess YouTube channel (http://www.youtube.com/user/LunenburgAccess/videos) within 24 hours of the meeting. This public meeting is being conducted remotely. The following information is also provided for members of the public that would like to participate in the meeting remotely. To Participate Remotely: From a computer, please use the Invite Link below to join the public meeting webinar: Join Zoom Meeting https://us02web.zoom.us/j/7663167607 Meeting ID: 766 316 7607 One tap mobile +19292056099,,7663167607# US (New York) +13017158592,,7663167607# US (Washington DC) Meeting ID: 766 316 7607 Find your local number: https://us02web.zoom.us/u/keEQiMHAD5 From a telephone, dial the toll free number (888) 475 -4499 and enter the Webinar ID: 7663167607 . If you have not registered with Zoom you will be asked for your name and an e -mail address. No te: No participant ID is needed , just press # when asked. Telephone users may dial “9” to request to speak after joining the meeting. Computer and app users may use the “raise hand” feature to request to speak. The agenda lists all the topics which may be discussed at the meeting and a re those reasonably anticipated by the Chair. Votes may be taken as a result of these discussions. Not all items listed may in fact be discussed and other items not listed may also be brought up for discussion to the extent permitted by Open Meeting Law. CALL TO ORDER OPEN MEETING – Approve minutes of February 22, 2023 LIMITED PUBLIC COMMENT EXECUTIVE SESSION – Motion to enter into Executive Session and not to return to Open Session after exiting Executive Session Enter executive session under Purpose 7: "To comply with, or act under the authority of, any general or special law or federal grant-in-aid requirements" "Applications for abatement or exemption under this chapter shall, except in proceedings before the county commissioners, the appellate tax board or a court of the commonwealth, be open only to the inspection of the assessors, the commissioner, the deputies, clerks and assistants of either the assessors or the commissioner and such other officials or designated private auditors of the commonwealth." CH59 S60 of MGL is the law being cited. ADJOURNMENT ===PAGE 2=== ======================================================================================== DOCUMENT : 2023-03-28-minutes-24.txt BOARD : board-of-assessors DATE : 2023-03-28 KIND : minutes OUR COPY : https://lunenburgbudgetproject.org/docs/minutes/text/board-of-assessors/2023-03-28-minutes-24.txt TOWN PDF : https://www.lunenburgma.gov/AgendaCenter/ViewFile/Minutes/_03282023-24 ======================================================================================== ===PAGE 1=== ======================================================================================== DOCUMENT : 2023-04-04-agenda-38.txt BOARD : board-of-assessors DATE : 2023-04-04 KIND : agenda OUR COPY : https://lunenburgbudgetproject.org/docs/minutes/text/board-of-assessors/2023-04-04-agenda-38.txt TOWN PDF : https://www.lunenburgma.gov/AgendaCenter/ViewFile/Agenda/_04042023-38 ======================================================================================== ===PAGE 1=== ======================================================================================== DOCUMENT : 2023-04-04-minutes-38.txt BOARD : board-of-assessors DATE : 2023-04-04 KIND : minutes OUR COPY : https://lunenburgbudgetproject.org/docs/minutes/text/board-of-assessors/2023-04-04-minutes-38.txt TOWN PDF : https://www.lunenburgma.gov/AgendaCenter/ViewFile/Minutes/_04042023-38 ======================================================================================== ===PAGE 1=== TOWN OF LUNENBURG BOARD OF ASSESSORS April 4, 2023 TOWN HALL, 17 Main Street and via Zoom Board of Assessors present: Kevin Fish, Christine Higdon, Richard Letarte (via ZOOM) Select Board Present: Michael-Ray Jeffreys, Chairman; Tom Alonzo, Vice Chairman; Lou Franco, Clerk; Heather Sroka Also Present: Heather Lemieux, Town Manager; Carol Archambault, Corrine Scouten, Donna Fortune, Sue Andrews, William Lakso, Jennifer Sanderson, Jacqueline Chabot, Christopher Sullivan Meeting was opened at 7:12 Mr . Jeffreys asked everyone to stand for the Pledge of Allegiance. He announced in accordance with the requirements of the Open Meeting Law, please be advised that thi s meeting is being recorded and broadcast live over the Lunenburg public access channel and Facebook Live and it will be uploaded to the Lunenburg public access YouTube channel within 24 hours after the meeting. The agenda lists all the topics which may be discussed at this meeting and are those reason ab ly anticipated by the Chair . Votes may be taken as a r es ult of these discussions. Not all items listed may in fact be discussed and other items not listed may also be brought up for discussion to the extent permitted by the Open Meeting L a w . PUBLIC C O M M E N T : Phyllis Luck, 50 Sunset Lane, inquired about the tax assessment in ves tigation, asking if Town Counsel had communicated with the Dept. of Revenue (DOR) regarding the mailin g dates of the tax bills as well as how the 135% assessment of the lake front properties was determined. Chip Gershew, Laurel Lane, reported he filed for an abatement , had an inspection but when he asked the BOA office what came next and if he could sit on his abatement r ev iew, he was informed he could not. He felt he h a d reasons for relief and wanted to expres s them. Mr. Jeffrey s stated those qu es tion s really s hould be addressed by the Board of Asses sors (BOA). Ms. Lemieux reported the company doing the abatement inspections has gone throu g h around 207 to date . They will be presenting their recommendations to the BOA possibly around April 23 rd . The conversation between Town Counsel and DOR resulted in finding there is a two part decision ; the date of the mailing, because the person responsible for the collection of tax es determines the date of mailing which determines when those tax bill s are due. The Treasurer/ collector has determined bas ed on the information provided there is enough doubt about the contradictory evidence between the postal service dates and the affidavit of ma iling from our billing company that she will be relying on the January 6 th date as the date of mailing. What that means in essence is that the third and fourth quarter bills will be due May 1 , 2023 an d no interest is due on third quarter taxes b etween th e period of February 1st and May 1 s t. Mr. Alonzo stated state law is silent on how abatement hearings are handled, so they are completely within the purview of the BOA about how they handle them and your desire to ===PAGE 2=== be in attendance is really up to their policy. But there's also no prohibition from the state that you can or can't be there for an abatement hearing. WORKSHOP: TAX ASSESSMENT INVESTIGATION R E V IE W Mr. Letarte called the Board of Assessors meeting to order. He reported 207 abatement applications have been reviewed . Discussion ensued about letters being sent to property owners by the BOA regarding extensions of their abatements and the time it would take for the BOA to review those abatement applications. Question was asked about public access to the BOA meetings. Mr. Letarte stated they would have to be limited to 20-30 minutes before the meeting due to the volume of applications . Our hands are tied currently because we are awaiting for site visit reports from the inspectors. Ms. Lemieux reported when she spoke with the owner of Municipal Finance Services today they said they've gone through 207 inspections so thus far; they're expected to do another 60 this Friday and Saturday. He's working on tables for recommendations and they're also working with Vision to create a dummy valuation table for those recommendations and those inspections. I think the expectation is the ones that have been done by April 23 rd . I want to make sure to clarify that versus the 400 applications; they haven't done 400 inspections so I wouldn't anticipate that they would have that done by April 23 rd . That's why extension letters are being sent out. So I think you're right they're halfway there. Question was asked in what order the inspections are being done. Ms. Lemieux stated they are going out in both order of receipt and mutual neighborhood areas. Mr. Alonzo asked for clarification on the question regarding property owners being able to attend the abatement hearings. Mr. Letarte stated it could be under a 30 minute public comment period at the beginning of their meeting. Mr. Alonzo stated he believed these owners wanted to attend the executive session portion that addresses their abatement application versus making a public comment. Mr. Letarte stated we had entertained doing that, but did not think it was possible due to time constraints. The BOA discussed the possibility of allowing property owners into executive session individually and noted even two or three minutes per owner, which is unrealistic, would amount to an additional 15 hours, thus extending time out needed to review all 400 applications. Their plan was to review 60-100 applications per week. Town Manager Lemieux advised whatever they decided to be consistent through the entire process. The Select Board concurred with her statement. Several scenarios were discussed on the abatement process according to the now assumed mailing date of the tax bills. The board moved on to the general framework of the investigation. Mr. Jeffreys read excerpts from a document detailing the investigation. Adjourn ======================================================================================== DOCUMENT : 2023-04-25-agenda-26.txt BOARD : board-of-assessors DATE : 2023-04-25 KIND : agenda OUR COPY : https://lunenburgbudgetproject.org/docs/minutes/text/board-of-assessors/2023-04-25-agenda-26.txt TOWN PDF : https://www.lunenburgma.gov/AgendaCenter/ViewFile/Agenda/_04252023-26 ======================================================================================== ===PAGE 1=== ======================================================================================== DOCUMENT : 2023-04-25-minutes-26.txt BOARD : board-of-assessors DATE : 2023-04-25 KIND : minutes OUR COPY : https://lunenburgbudgetproject.org/docs/minutes/text/board-of-assessors/2023-04-25-minutes-26.txt TOWN PDF : https://www.lunenburgma.gov/AgendaCenter/ViewFile/Minutes/_04252023-26 ======================================================================================== ===PAGE 1=== ===PAGE 2=== ======================================================================================== DOCUMENT : 2023-05-04-agenda-28.txt BOARD : board-of-assessors DATE : 2023-05-04 KIND : agenda OUR COPY : https://lunenburgbudgetproject.org/docs/minutes/text/board-of-assessors/2023-05-04-agenda-28.txt TOWN PDF : https://www.lunenburgma.gov/AgendaCenter/ViewFile/Agenda/_05042023-28 ======================================================================================== ===PAGE 1=== ======================================================================================== DOCUMENT : 2023-05-04-minutes-28.txt BOARD : board-of-assessors DATE : 2023-05-04 KIND : minutes OUR COPY : https://lunenburgbudgetproject.org/docs/minutes/text/board-of-assessors/2023-05-04-minutes-28.txt TOWN PDF : https://www.lunenburgma.gov/AgendaCenter/ViewFile/Minutes/_05042023-28 ======================================================================================== ===PAGE 1=== ===PAGE 2=== ======================================================================================== DOCUMENT : 2023-05-16-agenda-21.txt BOARD : board-of-assessors DATE : 2023-05-16 KIND : agenda OUR COPY : https://lunenburgbudgetproject.org/docs/minutes/text/board-of-assessors/2023-05-16-agenda-21.txt TOWN PDF : https://www.lunenburgma.gov/AgendaCenter/ViewFile/Agenda/_05162023-21 ======================================================================================== ===PAGE 1=== LUNENBURG BOARD OF ASSESSORS MEETING NOTICE TUESDAY, MAY 16, 2023 3:00 PM REMOTE PARTICIPATION MEETING AGENDA In accordance with the requirements of the Open Law Meeting Law, please be advised that this meeting will be recorded and can be found on the LunenburgAccess YouTube channel (http://www.youtube.com/user/LunenburgAccess/videos ) within 24 hours of the meeting. This public meeting is being conducted remotely. The following information is also provided for members of the public that would like to participate in the meeting remotely. To Participate Remotely: From a computer , please use the Invite Link below to join the public meeting webinar: Join Zoom Meeting https://us02web.zoom.us/j/7927370353 May 16, 2023 03:00 PM Eastern Time (US and Canada) Meeting ID: 792 737 0353 One tap mobile +19292056099,,7663167607# US (New York) +13017158592,,7663167607# US (Washington DC) Meeting ID: 792 737 0353 Find your local number: https://us02web.zoom.us/u/keEQiMHAD5 From a telepho ne, dial the toll free number (888) 475 -4499 and enter the Webinar ID: 792 737 0353 . If you have not registered with Zoom you will be asked for your name and an e -mail address. No te: No participant ID is needed , just press # when asked. Telephone users may dial “9” to request to speak after joining the meeting. Computer and app users may use the “raise hand” feature to request to speak. The agenda lists all the topics which may be discussed at the meeting and a re those reasonably anticipated by the Chair. Votes may be taken as a result of these discussions. Not all items listed may in fact be discussed and other items not listed may also be brought up for discussion to the extent permitted by Open Meeting Law. CALL TO ORDER PUBLIC COMMENT OPEN MEETING ● Approve minutes of March 28, 2023 ● To determine the procedure to be used with regards to the actual abatement process and to what degree the applicants will be able to participate. EXECUTIVE SESSION – Motion to enter into Executive Session and not to return to Open Session after exiting Executive Session. Enter executive session under Purpose 7: "To comply with, or act under the authority of, any general or special law or federal grant-in- aid requirements" "Applications for abatement or exemption under this chapter shall, except in proceedings before the county commissioners, the appellate tax board or a court of the commonwealth, be open only to the inspection of the assessors, the commissioner, the deputies, clerks and assistants of either the assessors or the commissioner and such other officials or designated private auditors of the commonwealth." CH59 S60 of MGL is the law being cited. ADJOURNMENT ===PAGE 2=== ======================================================================================== DOCUMENT : 2023-05-16-minutes-21.txt BOARD : board-of-assessors DATE : 2023-05-16 KIND : minutes OUR COPY : https://lunenburgbudgetproject.org/docs/minutes/text/board-of-assessors/2023-05-16-minutes-21.txt TOWN PDF : https://www.lunenburgma.gov/AgendaCenter/ViewFile/Minutes/_05162023-21 ======================================================================================== ===PAGE 1=== ===PAGE 2=== ===PAGE 3=== ======================================================================================== DOCUMENT : 2023-05-23-agenda-27.txt BOARD : board-of-assessors DATE : 2023-05-23 KIND : agenda OUR COPY : https://lunenburgbudgetproject.org/docs/minutes/text/board-of-assessors/2023-05-23-agenda-27.txt TOWN PDF : https://www.lunenburgma.gov/AgendaCenter/ViewFile/Agenda/_05232023-27 ======================================================================================== ===PAGE 1=== LUNENBURG BOARD OF ASSESSORS MEETING NOTICE THURSDAY, MAY 23, 2023 3:00 PM REMOTE PARTICIPATION MEETING AGENDA In accordance with the requirements of the Open Law Meeting Law, please be advised that this meeting will be recorded and can be found on the LunenburgAccess YouTube channel (http://www.youtube.com/user/LunenburgAccess/videos ) within 24 hours of the meeting. This public meeting is being conducted remotely. The following information is also provided for members of the public that would like to participate in the meeting remotely. To Participate Remotely: From a computer , please use the Invite Link below to join the public meeting webinar: Join Zoom Meeting https://us02web.zoom.us/j/7927370353 Time: May 23, 2023 03:00 PM Eastern Time (US and Canada) Meeting ID: 792 737 0353 One tap mobile +19292056099,,7663167607# US (New York) +13017158592,,7663167607# US (Washington DC) Meeting ID: 792 737 0353 Find your local number: https://us02web.zoom.us/u/keEQiMHAD5 From a telepho ne, dial the toll free number (888) 475 -4499 and enter the Webinar ID: 792 737 0353 . If you have not registered with Zoom you will be asked for your name and an e -mail address. No te: No participant ID is needed , just press # when asked. Telephone users may dial “9” to request to speak after joining the meeting. Computer and app users may use the “raise hand” feature to request to speak. The agenda lists all the topics which may be discussed at the meeting and a re those reasonably anticipated by the Chair. Votes may be taken as a result of these discussions. Not all items listed may in fact be discussed and other items not listed may also be brought up for discussion to the extent permitted by Open Meeting Law. CALL TO ORDER PUBLIC COMMENT OPEN MEETING ● Update from the Chairman, Richard H. Letarte EXECUTIVE SESSION – Motion to enter into Executive Session and not to return to Open Session after exiting Executive Session. Enter executive session under Purpose 7: "To comply with, or act under the authority of, any general or special law or federal grant-in- aid requirements" "Applications for abatement or exemption under this chapter shall, except in proceedings before the county commissioners, the appellate tax board or a court of the commonwealth, be open only to the inspection of the assessors, the commissioner, the deputies, clerks and assistants of either the assessors or the commissioner and such other officials or designated private auditors of the commonwealth." CH59 S60 of MGL is the law being cited. ADJOURNMENT ===PAGE 2=== ======================================================================================== DOCUMENT : 2023-05-23-minutes-27.txt BOARD : board-of-assessors DATE : 2023-05-23 KIND : minutes OUR COPY : https://lunenburgbudgetproject.org/docs/minutes/text/board-of-assessors/2023-05-23-minutes-27.txt TOWN PDF : https://www.lunenburgma.gov/AgendaCenter/ViewFile/Minutes/_05232023-27 ======================================================================================== ===PAGE 1=== ======================================================================================== DOCUMENT : 2023-05-25-agenda-29.txt BOARD : board-of-assessors DATE : 2023-05-25 KIND : agenda OUR COPY : https://lunenburgbudgetproject.org/docs/minutes/text/board-of-assessors/2023-05-25-agenda-29.txt TOWN PDF : https://www.lunenburgma.gov/AgendaCenter/ViewFile/Agenda/_05252023-29 ======================================================================================== ===PAGE 1=== LUNENBURG BOARD OF ASSESSORS MEETING NOTICE TUESDAY, MAY 25, 2023 3:00 PM REMOTE PARTICIPATION MEETING AGENDA In accordance with the requirements of the Open Law Meeting Law, please be advised that this meeting will be recorded and can be found on the LunenburgAccess YouTube channel (http://www.youtube.com/user/LunenburgAccess/videos ) within 24 hours of the meeting. This public meeting is being conducted remotely. The following information is also provided for members of the public that would like to participate in the meeting remotely. To Participate Remotely: From a computer , please use the Invite Link below to join the public meeting webinar: Join Zoom Meeting https://us02web.zoom.us/j/9091740347 Time: May 25, 2023 03:00 PM Eastern Time (US and Canada) Meeting ID: 909 174 0347 One tap mobile +19292056099,,7663167607# US (New York) +13017158592,,7663167607# US (Washington DC) Meeting ID: 792 737 0353 Find your local number: https://us02web.zoom.us/u/keEQiMHAD5 From a telepho ne, dial the toll free number (888) 475 -4499 and enter the Webinar ID: 792 737 0353 . If you have not registered with Zoom you will be asked for your name and an e -mail address. No te: No participant ID is needed , just press # when asked. Telephone users may dial “9” to request to speak after joining the meeting. Computer and app users may use the “raise hand” feature to request to speak. The agenda lists all the topics which may be discussed at the meeting and a re those reasonably anticipated by the Chair. Votes may be taken as a result of these discussions. Not all items listed may in fact be discussed and other items not listed may also be brought up for discussion to the extent permitted by Open Meeting Law. CALL TO ORDER PUBLIC COMMENT OPEN MEETING ● Update from the Chairman, Richard H. Letarte EXECUTIVE SESSION – Motion to enter into Executive Session and not to return to Open Session after exiting Executive Session. Enter executive session under Purpose 7: "To comply with, or act under the authority of, any general or special law or federal grant-in- aid requirements" "Applications for abatement or exemption under this chapter shall, except in proceedings before the county commissioners, the appellate tax board or a court of the commonwealth, be open only to the inspection of the assessors, the commissioner, the deputies, clerks and assistants of either the assessors or the commissioner and such other officials or designated private auditors of the commonwealth." CH59 S60 of MGL is the law being cited. ADJOURNMENT ===PAGE 2=== ======================================================================================== DOCUMENT : 2023-05-25-minutes-29.txt BOARD : board-of-assessors DATE : 2023-05-25 KIND : minutes OUR COPY : https://lunenburgbudgetproject.org/docs/minutes/text/board-of-assessors/2023-05-25-minutes-29.txt TOWN PDF : https://www.lunenburgma.gov/AgendaCenter/ViewFile/Minutes/_05252023-29 ======================================================================================== ===PAGE 1=== ======================================================================================== DOCUMENT : 2023-05-30-agenda-39.txt BOARD : board-of-assessors DATE : 2023-05-30 KIND : agenda OUR COPY : https://lunenburgbudgetproject.org/docs/minutes/text/board-of-assessors/2023-05-30-agenda-39.txt TOWN PDF : https://www.lunenburgma.gov/AgendaCenter/ViewFile/Agenda/_05302023-39 ======================================================================================== ===PAGE 1=== LUNENBURG BOARD OF ASSESSORS MEETING NOTICE TUESDAY, MAY 30, 2023 3:00 PM REMOTE PARTICIPATION MEETING AGENDA In accordance with the requirements of the Open Law Meeting Law, please be advised that this meeting will be recorded and can be found on the LunenburgAccess YouTube channel (http://www.youtube.com/user/LunenburgAccess/videos ) within 24 hours of the meeting. This public meeting is being conducted remotely. The following information is also provided for members of the public that would like to participate in the meeting remotely. To Participate Remotely: From a computer , please use the Invite Link below to join the public meeting webinar: Join Zoom Meeting https://us02web.zoom.us/j/7663167607 Meeting ID: 766 316 7607 One tap mobile +19292056099,,7663167607# US (New York) +13017158592,,7663167607# US (Washington DC) Meeting ID: 766 316 7607 Find your local number: https://us02web.zoom.us/u/keEQiMHAD5 From a telephone, dial the toll free number (888) 475 -4499 and enter the Webinar ID: 792 737 0353 . If you have not registered with Zoom you will be asked for your name and an e -mail address. No te: No participant ID is needed , just press # when asked. Teleph one users may dial “9” to request to speak after joining the meeting. Computer and app users may use the “raise hand” feature to request to speak. The agenda lists all the topics which may be discussed at the meeting and are those reasonably anticipated by the Chair. Votes may be taken as a result of these discussions. Not all items listed may in fact be discussed and other items not listed may also be brought up for discussion to the extent permitted by Open Meeting Law. CALL TO ORDER PUBLIC COMMENT OPEN MEETING ● Update from the Chairman, Richard H. Letarte EXECUTIVE SESSION – Motion to enter into Executive Session and enter back into Open Session after exiting Executive Session Enter executive session under Purpose 7: "To comply with, or act under the authority of, any general or special law or federal grant-in-aid requirements" "Applications for abatement or exemption under this chapter shall, except in proceedings before the county commissioners, the appellate tax board or a court of the commonwealth, be open only to the inspection of the assessors, the commissioner, the deputies, clerks and assistants of either the assessors or the commissioner and such other officials or designated private auditors of the commonwealth." CH59 S60 of MGL is the law being cited. ADJOURNMENT ===PAGE 2=== ======================================================================================== DOCUMENT : 2023-05-30-minutes-39.txt BOARD : board-of-assessors DATE : 2023-05-30 KIND : minutes OUR COPY : https://lunenburgbudgetproject.org/docs/minutes/text/board-of-assessors/2023-05-30-minutes-39.txt TOWN PDF : https://www.lunenburgma.gov/AgendaCenter/ViewFile/Minutes/_05302023-39 ======================================================================================== ===PAGE 1=== ======================================================================================== DOCUMENT : 2023-06-01-agenda-30.txt BOARD : board-of-assessors DATE : 2023-06-01 KIND : agenda OUR COPY : https://lunenburgbudgetproject.org/docs/minutes/text/board-of-assessors/2023-06-01-agenda-30.txt TOWN PDF : https://www.lunenburgma.gov/AgendaCenter/ViewFile/Agenda/_06012023-30 ======================================================================================== ===PAGE 1=== LUNENBURG BOARD OF ASSESSORS MEETING NOTICE THURSDAY, JUNE 1, 2023 11:00 AM BILOTTA MEETING ROOM, TOWN HALL 17 Main Street The agenda lists all the topics which may be discussed at the meeting and are those reasonably anticipated by the Chair. Votes may be taken as a result of these discussions. Not all items listed may in fact be discussed and other items not listed may also be brought up for discussion to the extent permitted by Open Meeting Law. CALL TO ORDER EXECUTIVE SESSION - Motion to enter into Executive Session and not to return to Open Session after exiting Executive Session. Enter executive session under Purpose 7: "To comply with, or act under the authority of, any general or special law or federal grant-in-aid requirements" "Applications for abatement or exemption under this chapter shall, except in proceedings before the county commissioners, the appellate tax board or a court of the commonwealth, be open only to the inspection of the assessors, the commissioner, the deputies, clerks and assistants of either the assessors or the commissioner and such other officials or designated private auditors of the commonwealth." CH59 S60 of MGL is the law being cited. ADJOURNMENT ===PAGE 2=== ======================================================================================== DOCUMENT : 2023-06-06-agenda-35.txt BOARD : board-of-assessors DATE : 2023-06-06 KIND : agenda OUR COPY : https://lunenburgbudgetproject.org/docs/minutes/text/board-of-assessors/2023-06-06-agenda-35.txt TOWN PDF : https://www.lunenburgma.gov/AgendaCenter/ViewFile/Agenda/_06062023-35 ======================================================================================== ===PAGE 1=== LUNENBURG BOARD OF ASSESSORS MEETING NOTICE TUESDAY, JUNE 6, 2023 3:00 PM REMOTE PARTICIPATION MEETING AGENDA In accordance with the requirements of the Open Law Meeting Law, please be advised that this meeting will be recorded and can be found on the LunenburgAccess YouTube channel (http://www.youtube.com/user/LunenburgAccess/videos ) within 24 hours of the meeting. This public meeting is being conducted remotely. The following information is also provided for members of the public that would like to participate in the meeting remotely. To Participate Remotely: From a computer , please use the Invite Link below to join the public meeting webinar: Join Zoom Meeting https://us02web.zoom.us/j/7663167607 Meeting ID: 766 316 7607 One tap mobile +19292056099,,7663167607# US (New York) +13017158592,,7663167607# US (Washington DC) Find your local number: https://us02web.zoom.us/u/keEQiMHAD5 From a telephone, dial the toll free number (888) 475 -4499 and enter the Webinar ID: 766 316 7607 . If you have not registered with Zoom you will be asked for your name and an e -mail address. No te: No participant ID is needed , just press # when asked. Telephone users may dial “9” to request to speak after joining the meeting. Computer and app users may use the “raise hand” feature to request to speak. The agenda lists all the topics which may be discussed at the meeting and a re those reasonably anticipated by the Chair. Votes may be taken as a result of these discussions. Not all items listed may in fact be discussed and other items not listed may also be brought up for discussion to the extent permitted by Open Meeting Law. CALL TO ORDER PUBLIC COMMENT OPEN MEETING ● Update from the Chairman, Richard H. Letarte ● Reorganization of the Board of Assessors EXECUTIVE SESSION – Motion to enter into Executive Session and not to return into Open Session after exiting Executive Session. Enter executive session under Purpose 7: "To comply with, or act under the authority of, any general or special law or federal grant-in- aid requirements" "Applications for abatement or exemption under this chapter shall, except in proceedings before the county commissioners, the appellate tax board or a court of the commonwealth, be open only to the inspection of the assessors, the commissioner, the deputies, clerks and assistants of either the assessors or the commissioner and such other officials or designated private auditors of the commonwealth." CH59 S60 of MGL is the law being cited. ADJOURNMENT ===PAGE 2=== ======================================================================================== DOCUMENT : 2023-06-06-minutes-35.txt BOARD : board-of-assessors DATE : 2023-06-06 KIND : minutes OUR COPY : https://lunenburgbudgetproject.org/docs/minutes/text/board-of-assessors/2023-06-06-minutes-35.txt TOWN PDF : https://www.lunenburgma.gov/AgendaCenter/ViewFile/Minutes/_06062023-35 ======================================================================================== ===PAGE 1=== ======================================================================================== DOCUMENT : 2023-06-07-agenda-36.txt BOARD : board-of-assessors DATE : 2023-06-07 KIND : agenda OUR COPY : https://lunenburgbudgetproject.org/docs/minutes/text/board-of-assessors/2023-06-07-agenda-36.txt TOWN PDF : https://www.lunenburgma.gov/AgendaCenter/ViewFile/Agenda/_06072023-36 ======================================================================================== ===PAGE 1=== LUNENBURG BOARD OF ASSESSORS MEETING NOTICE WEDNESDAY, JUNE 7, 2023 2:30 PM REMOTE PARTICIPATION MEETING AGENDA In accordance with the requirements of the Open Law Meeting Law, please be advised that this meeting will be recorded and can be found on the LunenburgAccess YouTube channel (http://www.youtube.com/user/LunenburgAccess/videos ) within 24 hours of the meeting. This public meeting is being conducted remotely. The following information is also provided for members of the public that would like to participate in the meeting remotely. To Participate Remotely: From a computer , please use the Invite Link below to join the public meeting webinar: Join Zoom Meeting https://us02web.zoom.us/j/7927370353 Meeting ID: 792 737 0353 One tap mobile +19292056099,,7663167607# US (New York) +13017158592,,7663167607# US (Washington DC) Meeting ID: 792 737 0353 Find your local number: https://us02web.zoom.us/u/keEQiMHAD5 From a telephone, dial the toll free number (888) 475 -4499 and enter the Webinar ID: 792 737 0353 . If you have not registered with Zoom you will be asked for your name and an e -mail address. No te: No participant ID is needed , just press # when asked. Telephone users may dial “9” to request to speak after joining the meeting. Computer and app users may use the “raise hand” feature to request to speak. The agenda lists all the topics which may be discussed at the meeting and a re those reasonably anticipated by the Chair. Votes may be taken as a result of these discussions. Not all items listed may in fact be discussed and other items not listed may also be brought up for discussion to the extent permitted by Open Meeting Law. CALL TO ORDER PUBLIC COMMENT OPEN MEETING ● Update from the Chairman, Richard H. Letarte EXECUTIVE SESSION – Motion to enter into Executive Session and not to return into Open Session after exiting Executive Session. Enter executive session under Purpose 7: "To comply with, or act under the authority of, any general or special law or federal grant-in- aid requirements" "Applications for abatement or exemption under this chapter shall, except in proceedings before the county commissioners, the appellate tax board or a court of the commonwealth, be open only to the inspection of the assessors, the commissioner, the deputies, clerks and assistants of either the assessors or the commissioner and such other officials or designated private auditors of the commonwealth." CH59 S60 of MGL is the law being cited. ADJOURNMENT ===PAGE 2=== ======================================================================================== DOCUMENT : 2023-06-08-agenda-37.txt BOARD : board-of-assessors DATE : 2023-06-08 KIND : agenda OUR COPY : https://lunenburgbudgetproject.org/docs/minutes/text/board-of-assessors/2023-06-08-agenda-37.txt TOWN PDF : https://www.lunenburgma.gov/AgendaCenter/ViewFile/Agenda/_06082023-37 ======================================================================================== ===PAGE 1=== LUNENBURG BOARD OF ASSESSORS MEETING NOTICE THURSDAY, JUNE 8, 2023 3:00 PM REMOTE PARTICIPATION MEETING AGENDA In accordance with the requirements of the Open Law Meeting Law, please be advised that this meeting will be recorded and can be found on the LunenburgAccess YouTube channel (http://www.youtube.com/user/LunenburgAccess/videos ) within 24 hours of the meeting. This public meeting is being conducted remotely. The following information is also provided for members of the public that would like to participate in the meeting remotely. To Participate Remotely: From a computer , please use the Invite Link below to join the public meeting webinar: Join Zoom Meeting https://us02web.zoom.us/j/7927370353 Meeting ID: 792 737 0353 One tap mobile +19292056099,,7663167607# US (New York) +13017158592,,7663167607# US (Washington DC) Meeting ID: 792 737 0353 Find your local number: https://us02web.zoom.us/u/keEQiMHAD5 From a telephone, dial the toll free number (888) 475 -4499 and enter the Webinar ID: 792 737 0353 . If you have not registered with Zoom you will be asked for your name and an e -mail address. No te: No participant ID is needed , just press # when asked. Telephone users may dial “9” to request to speak after joining the meeting. Computer and app users may use the “raise hand” feature to request to speak. The agenda lists all the topics which may be discussed at the meeting and a re those reasonably anticipated by the Chair. Votes may be taken as a result of these discussions. Not all items listed may in fact be discussed and other items not listed may also be brought up for discussion to the extent permitted by Open Meeting Law. CALL TO ORDER PUBLIC COMMENT OPEN MEETING ● Update from the Chairman, Richard H. Letarte EXECUTIVE SESSION – Motion to enter into Executive Session and not to return into Open Session after exiting Executive Session. Enter executive session under Purpose 7: "To comply with, or act under the authority of, any general or special law or federal grant-in- aid requirements" "Applications for abatement or exemption under this chapter shall, except in proceedings before the county commissioners, the appellate tax board or a court of the commonwealth, be open only to the inspection of the assessors, the commissioner, the deputies, clerks and assistants of either the assessors or the commissioner and such other officials or designated private auditors of the commonwealth." CH59 S60 of MGL is the law being cited. ADJOURNMENT ===PAGE 2=== ======================================================================================== DOCUMENT : 2023-06-08-minutes-37.txt BOARD : board-of-assessors DATE : 2023-06-08 KIND : minutes OUR COPY : https://lunenburgbudgetproject.org/docs/minutes/text/board-of-assessors/2023-06-08-minutes-37.txt TOWN PDF : https://www.lunenburgma.gov/AgendaCenter/ViewFile/Minutes/_06082023-37 ======================================================================================== ===PAGE 1=== ======================================================================================== DOCUMENT : 2023-06-13-agenda-31.txt BOARD : board-of-assessors DATE : 2023-06-13 KIND : agenda OUR COPY : https://lunenburgbudgetproject.org/docs/minutes/text/board-of-assessors/2023-06-13-agenda-31.txt TOWN PDF : https://www.lunenburgma.gov/AgendaCenter/ViewFile/Agenda/_06132023-31 ======================================================================================== ===PAGE 1=== LUNENBURG BOARD OF ASSESSORS MEETING NOTICE TUESDAY, JUNE 13, 2023 3:00 PM REMOTE PARTICIPATION MEETING AGENDA In accordance with the requirements of the Open Law Meeting Law, please be advised that this meeting will be recorded and can be found on the Lunenburg Access YouTube channel (http://www.youtube.com/user/LunenburgAccess/videos ) within 24 hours of the meeting. This public meeting is being conducted remotely. The following information is also provided for members of the public that would like to participate in the meeting remotely. To Participate Remotely: From a computer , please use the Invite Link below to join the public meeting webinar: Join Zoom Meeting https://us02web.zoom.us/j/7927370353 Meeting ID: 792 737 0353 One tap mobile +19292056099,,7663167607# US (New York) +13017158592,,7663167607# US (Washington DC) Find your local number: https://us02web.zoom.us/u/keEQiMHAD5 From a telephone, dial the toll free number (888) 475 -4499 and enter the Webinar ID: 792 737 0353 . If you have not registered with Zoom you will be asked for your name and an e -mail address. No te: No participant ID is needed , just press # when asked. Telephone users may dial “9” to request to speak after joining the meeting. Computer and app users may use the “raise hand” feature to request to speak. The agenda lists all the topics which may be discussed at the meeting and a re those reasonably anticipated by the Chair. Votes may be taken as a result of these discussions. Not all items listed may in fact be discussed and other items not listed may also be brought up for discussion to the extent permitted by Open Meeting Law. CALL TO ORDER PUBLIC COMMENT OPEN MEETING ● Update from the Chairman, Richard H. Letarte EXECUTIVE SESSION – Motion to enter into Executive Session and not to return into Open Session after exiting Executive Session. Enter executive session under Purpose 7: "To comply with, or act under the authority of, any general or special law or federal grant-in- aid requirements" "Applications for abatement or exemption under this chapter shall, except in proceedings before the county commissioners, the appellate tax board or a court of the commonwealth, be open only to the inspection of the assessors, the commissioner, the deputies, clerks and assistants of either the assessors or the commissioner and such other officials or designated private auditors of the commonwealth." CH59 S60 of MGL is the law being cited. ADJOURNMENT ===PAGE 2=== ======================================================================================== DOCUMENT : 2023-06-13-minutes-31.txt BOARD : board-of-assessors DATE : 2023-06-13 KIND : minutes OUR COPY : https://lunenburgbudgetproject.org/docs/minutes/text/board-of-assessors/2023-06-13-minutes-31.txt TOWN PDF : https://www.lunenburgma.gov/AgendaCenter/ViewFile/Minutes/_06132023-31 ======================================================================================== ===PAGE 1=== ======================================================================================== DOCUMENT : 2023-06-15-agenda-33.txt BOARD : board-of-assessors DATE : 2023-06-15 KIND : agenda OUR COPY : https://lunenburgbudgetproject.org/docs/minutes/text/board-of-assessors/2023-06-15-agenda-33.txt TOWN PDF : https://www.lunenburgma.gov/AgendaCenter/ViewFile/Agenda/_06152023-33 ======================================================================================== ===PAGE 1=== LUNENBURG BOARD OF ASSESSORS MEETING NOTICE THURSDAY, JUNE 15, 2023 3:00 PM REMOTE PARTICIPATION MEETING AGENDA In accordance with the requirements of the Open Law Meeting Law, please be advised that this meeting will be recorded and can be found on the Lunenburg Access YouTube channel (http://www.youtube.com/user/LunenburgAccess/videos ) within 24 hours of the meeting. This public meeting is being conducted remotely. The following information is also provided for members of the public that would like to participate in the meeting remotely. To Participate Remotely: From a computer , please use the Invite Link below to join the public meeting webinar: Join Zoom Meeting https://us02web.zoom.us/j/7927370353 Meeting ID: 792 737 0353 One tap mobile +19292056099,,7663167607# US (New York) +13017158592,,7663167607# US (Washington DC) Meeting ID: 792 737 0353 Find your local number: https://us02web.zoom.us/u/keEQiMHAD5 From a telephone, dial the toll free number (888) 475 -4499 and enter the Webinar ID: 792 737 0353 . If you have not registered with Zoom you will be asked for your name and an e -mail address. No te: No participant ID is needed , just press # when asked. Telephone users may dial “9” to request to speak after joining the meeting. Computer and app users may use the “raise hand” feature to request to speak. The agenda lists all the topics which may be discussed at the meeting and a re those reasonably anticipated by the Chair. Votes may be taken as a result of these discussions. Not all items listed may in fact be discussed and other items not listed may also be brought up for discussion to the extent permitted by Open Meeting Law. CALL TO ORDER PUBLIC COMMENT OPEN MEETING ● Update from the Chairman, Richard H. Letarte EXECUTIVE SESSION – Motion to enter into Executive Session and not to return into Open Session after exiting Executive Session. Enter executive session under Purpose 7: "To comply with, or act under the authority of, any general or special law or federal grant-in- aid requirements" "Applications for abatement or exemption under this chapter shall, except in proceedings before the county commissioners, the appellate tax board or a court of the commonwealth, be open only to the inspection of the assessors, the commissioner, the deputies, clerks and assistants of either the assessors or the commissioner and such other officials or designated private auditors of the commonwealth." CH59 S60 of MGL is the law being cited. ADJOURNMENT ===PAGE 2=== ======================================================================================== DOCUMENT : 2023-06-15-minutes-33.txt BOARD : board-of-assessors DATE : 2023-06-15 KIND : minutes OUR COPY : https://lunenburgbudgetproject.org/docs/minutes/text/board-of-assessors/2023-06-15-minutes-33.txt TOWN PDF : https://www.lunenburgma.gov/AgendaCenter/ViewFile/Minutes/_06152023-33 ======================================================================================== ===PAGE 1=== ======================================================================================== DOCUMENT : 2023-06-29-agenda-416.txt BOARD : board-of-assessors DATE : 2023-06-29 KIND : agenda OUR COPY : https://lunenburgbudgetproject.org/docs/minutes/text/board-of-assessors/2023-06-29-agenda-416.txt TOWN PDF : https://www.lunenburgma.gov/AgendaCenter/ViewFile/Agenda/_06292023-416 ======================================================================================== ===PAGE 1=== LUNENBURG BOARD OF ASSESSORS MEETING NOTICE THURSDAY, JUNE 29, 2023 4:00 PM BILOTTA MEETING ROOM, TOWN HALL 17 Main Street The agenda lists all the topics which may be discussed at the meeting and are those reasonably anticipated by the Chair. Votes may be taken as a result of these discussions. Not all items listed may in fact be discussed and other items not listed may also be brought up for discussion to the extent permitted by Open Meeting Law. CALL TO ORDER PUBLIC COMMENT OPEN MEETING  Discuss upcoming 5-year Certification  Discuss Office Work Plan  Review and Approval of Expense Vouchers, Motor Vehicle Abatements and Payroll OPEN DISCUSSION EXECUTIVE SESSION – Motion to enter into Executive Session and not to return into Open Session after exiting Executive Session. Enter executive session under Purpose 7: "To comply with, or act under the authority of, any general or special law or federal grant-in-aid requirements" "Applications for abatement or exemption under this chapter shall, except in proceedings before the county commissioners, the appellate tax board or a court of the commonwealth, be open only to the inspection of the assessors, the commissioner, the deputies, clerks and assistants of either the assessors or the commissioner and such other officials or designated private auditors of the commonwealth." CH59 S60 of MGL is the law being cited. ADJOURNMENT ===PAGE 2=== ======================================================================================== DOCUMENT : 2023-06-29-minutes-416.txt BOARD : board-of-assessors DATE : 2023-06-29 KIND : minutes OUR COPY : https://lunenburgbudgetproject.org/docs/minutes/text/board-of-assessors/2023-06-29-minutes-416.txt TOWN PDF : https://www.lunenburgma.gov/AgendaCenter/ViewFile/Minutes/_06292023-416 ======================================================================================== ===PAGE 1=== ===PAGE 2=== ===PAGE 3=== ======================================================================================== DOCUMENT : 2023-07-18-agenda-394.txt BOARD : board-of-assessors DATE : 2023-07-18 KIND : agenda OUR COPY : https://lunenburgbudgetproject.org/docs/minutes/text/board-of-assessors/2023-07-18-agenda-394.txt TOWN PDF : https://www.lunenburgma.gov/AgendaCenter/ViewFile/Agenda/_07182023-394 ======================================================================================== ===PAGE 1=== LUNENBURG BOARD OF ASSESSORS MEETING NOTICE TUESDAY, JULY 18, 2023 2:30 PM REMOTE PARTICIPATION MEETING AGENDA In accordance with the requirements of the Open Law Meeting Law, please be advised that this meeting will be recorded and can be found on the LunenburgAccess YouTube channel (http://www.youtube.com/user/LunenburgAccess/videos ) within 24 hours of the meeting. This public meeting is being conducted remotely. The following information is also provided for members of the public that would like to participate in the meeting remotely. To Participate Remotely: From a computer , please use the Invite Link below to join the public meeting webinar: Time: Jul 18, 2023 02:30 PM Eastern Time (US and Canada) Join Zoom Meeting https://us02web.zoom.us/j/7927370353 Meeting ID: 792 737 0353 One tap mobile +19292056099,,7663167607# US (New York) +13017158592,,7663167607# US (Washington DC) Meeting ID: 792 737 0353 Find your local number: https://us02web.zoom.us/u/keEQiMHAD5 From a telephone, dial the toll free number (888) 475 -4499 and enter the Webinar ID: 792 737 0353 . If you have not registered with Zoom you will be asked for your name and an e -mail address. No te: No participant ID is needed , just press # when asked. Teleph one users may dial “9” to request to speak after joining the meeting. Computer and app users may use the “raise hand” feature to request to speak. The agenda lists all the topics which may be discussed at the meeting and are those reasonably anticipated by the Chair. Votes may be taken as a result of these discussions. Not all items listed may in fact be discussed and other items not listed may also be brought up for discussion to the extent permitted by Open Meeting Law. CALL TO ORDER LIMITED PUBLIC COMMENT OPEN MEETING ● DISCUSS OFFICE FUNCTIONS ● DISCUSS OFFICE WORK PLAN ● REVIEW AND APPROVAL OF EXPENSE VOUCHERS EXECUTIVE SESSION – Motion to enter into Executive Session and not to return into Open Session after exiting Executive Session. Enter executive session under Purpose 7: "To comply with, or act under the authority of, any general or special law or federal grant-in- aid requirements" "Applications for abatement or exemption under this chapter shall, except in proceedings before the county commissioners, the appellate tax board or a court of the commonwealth, be open only to the inspection of the assessors, the commissioner, the deputies, clerks and assistants of either the assessors or the commissioner and such other officials or designated private auditors of the commonwealth." CH59 S60 of MGL is the law being cited. ADJOURNMENT ===PAGE 2=== ======================================================================================== DOCUMENT : 2023-07-18-minutes-394.txt BOARD : board-of-assessors DATE : 2023-07-18 KIND : minutes OUR COPY : https://lunenburgbudgetproject.org/docs/minutes/text/board-of-assessors/2023-07-18-minutes-394.txt TOWN PDF : https://www.lunenburgma.gov/AgendaCenter/ViewFile/Minutes/_07182023-394 ======================================================================================== ===PAGE 1=== ===PAGE 2=== ======================================================================================== DOCUMENT : 2023-08-01-agenda-352.txt BOARD : board-of-assessors DATE : 2023-08-01 KIND : agenda OUR COPY : https://lunenburgbudgetproject.org/docs/minutes/text/board-of-assessors/2023-08-01-agenda-352.txt TOWN PDF : https://www.lunenburgma.gov/AgendaCenter/ViewFile/Agenda/_08012023-352 ======================================================================================== ===PAGE 1=== LUNENBURG BOARD OF ASSESSORS MEETING NOTICE TUESDAY, AUGUST 1, 2023 2:30 PM REMOTE MEETING VIA ZOOM FOR OPEN SESSION In accordance with the requirements of the Open Meeting Law, please be advised that this meeting is being recorded and broadcast live over the Lunenburg Public Access channel, on FacebookLive on the Public Access Facebook page (https://www.facebook.com/Lunenburg-Public-Access-Cable-157427270975305/) and will be uploaded to the LunenburgAccess YouTube after the meeting. The following information is also provided for members of the public that would like to attend the meeting remotely: To Access the Meeting Remotely: From a computer, please use the link below to join the public meeting webinar: https://zoom.us/j/7927370353 or from a telephone, dial the toll free number (888) 475-4499 and enter Webinar ID: 792-737- 0353 # If you have not registered with Zoom you will be asked for your name and an e-mail address. Note: No participant ID is needed, just press # when asked. Telephone users may dial *9 to request to speak after joining the meeting. Computer and app users may use the “raise hand” feature to request to speak. The agenda lists all the topics which may be discussed at the meeting and are those reasonably anticipated by the Chair. Votes may be taken as a result of these discussions. Not all items listed may in fact be discussed and other items not listed may also be brought up for discussion to the extent permitted by Open Meeting Law. CALL TO ORDER PUBLIC COMMENT OPEN MEETING  Review and Approval of Expense Vouchers, Motor Vehicle Abatements and Payroll  Discuss Office Functions EXECUTIVE SESSION – Motion to enter into Executive Session and not to return into Open Session after exiting Executive Session. Enter executive session under Purpose 7: "To comply with, or act under the authority of, any general or special law or federal grant-in-aid requirements" ===PAGE 2=== "Applications for abatement or exemption under this chapter shall, except in proceedings before the county commissioners, the appellate tax board or a court of the commonwealth, be open only to the inspection of the assessors, the commissioner, the deputies, clerks and assistants of either the assessors or the commissioner and such other officials or designated private auditors of the commonwealth." CH59 S60 of MGL is the law being cited. ADJOURNMENT ======================================================================================== DOCUMENT : 2023-08-01-minutes-352.txt BOARD : board-of-assessors DATE : 2023-08-01 KIND : minutes OUR COPY : https://lunenburgbudgetproject.org/docs/minutes/text/board-of-assessors/2023-08-01-minutes-352.txt TOWN PDF : https://www.lunenburgma.gov/AgendaCenter/ViewFile/Minutes/_08012023-352 ======================================================================================== ===PAGE 1=== ===PAGE 2=== ======================================================================================== DOCUMENT : 2023-09-27-agenda-346.txt BOARD : board-of-assessors DATE : 2023-09-27 KIND : agenda OUR COPY : https://lunenburgbudgetproject.org/docs/minutes/text/board-of-assessors/2023-09-27-agenda-346.txt TOWN PDF : https://www.lunenburgma.gov/AgendaCenter/ViewFile/Agenda/_09272023-346 ======================================================================================== ===PAGE 1=== ======================================================================================== DOCUMENT : 2023-09-27-minutes-346.txt BOARD : board-of-assessors DATE : 2023-09-27 KIND : minutes OUR COPY : https://lunenburgbudgetproject.org/docs/minutes/text/board-of-assessors/2023-09-27-minutes-346.txt TOWN PDF : https://www.lunenburgma.gov/AgendaCenter/ViewFile/Minutes/_09272023-346 ======================================================================================== ===PAGE 1=== TOWN OF LUNENBURG BOARD OF ASSESSORS P .O. BOX 135 LUNENBURG, MA 01462 September 27, 2023 Present Members: Vice Chair Sarah Cammer, Chair Brian Laffond, Clerk John Rabbitt, Interim Principal Assessor Rena Swezey. 1. Call to order The meeting opened at 6:30 PM. 2. Board Comment  Two additional members are welcomed on the board: Sarah Cammer and Brian Laffond. Brian Laffond has been on multiple local boards and committees for about 20 years. Sarah Cammer has previously been on local town boards. Public Comment  Michael Ray Jeffreys – 1170 Massachusetts Ave.- briefly discussed the recent excise tax issue. Michael Ray Jeffreys states the first steps include prioritizing and communication. He believes the board should look at taxes as assessed from the previous year and compare them to what’s being suggested to find any potential problems. Regarding communication, Michael Ray Jeffreys states that the Select Board had to step up and answer the public’s concerns when this is the role of the Board of Assessors. Michael Ray Jeffreys believes the number 1 priority is to do the job everyone was elected or appointed for. Additionally, there must be support for staff to better support the community.  Tom Alonzo- 284 Lancaster Ave. – states that the task in front of you is significant. Urges members to make a list of everything that needs to be addressed and then prioritize those lists. Tom Alonzo expressed emphasis that everyone needs to as a unit. Tom Alonzo believes the lack of response back in January made the community more anxious and angrier that they weren't getting answers. 3. New Business  Reorganization of the Board to elect a Chair, Vice-chair, and Clerk There is a brief discussion regarding the roles of each member, and everyone is in general agreement. The role of the Chair is to organize the group and facilitate discussions to identify the board’s goals. The Vice-Chair helps run the meetings if the Chair is not available, and the Clerk is responsible for administrative tasks. Sarah Cammer states that she is unable to be Chair currently because of prior obligations and her full-time job. Brian Laffond is willing to be the Chair and has had prior experience being the Chair of the Financial Committee for 4-5 years. John Rabbitt expresses that he doesn’t want to be the Chair or Vice Chair. John Rabbitt also recommends a new chair be elected with a rotation on a yearly basis. Sarah Cammer nominated Brian Laffond for Chair, seconded by John Rabbitt. All in favor. ===PAGE 2=== John Rabbitt nominated Sarah Cammer for Vice Chair, seconded by Brian Laffond. All in favor. John Rabbitt nominated himself for Clerk. All in favor.  Discuss Regular Meeting Schedule and Next Meeting Dates Based on everyone's schedule there is a discussion to move the meetings to Monday nights at 6:45 PM. Someone from the board will reach out to Sheila to see if she is able to make it to 1 meeting a month. Brian Laffond will investigate how to officially change the meetings to Monday nights and what the process is. Rena Swezey believes a monthly meeting is appropriate until it starts to get to the busier months. Sarah suggests they have bi-weekly meetings.  Status Report from Interim Principal Assessor Rena Swezey provides a general update and shares that she has been very busy. There are between 15 and 20 new homes that need to be inspected, sketched, and entered into the system. Rena Swezey states the kickoff meeting with Vision took place the prior day. There was a discussion about starting to review all sales. Once preliminary values and certifications are received, they will be put onto the website. These values and certifications are usually due in October and classification hearings are in November/December. There was a discussion about making impact notes which are required by the DOR during re-eval. This would then be provided on the webpage and hard copies will be made available to the public at a location such as the library. Project updates: o All the chapter land and senior exemptions are returned. A meeting for both topics will have to take place at an upcoming time. o Numbers for sales are being looked at by Nate Cramer and Vision. o Personal property assessment has been completed for the year. o The mapping company, CAI, is updating property cards. Land maps are getting updated and are due by January 1st. If a resident needs a copy of their record card, call the town and one can be mailed or can be picked up. The website info isn’t as up-to-date. o All sales verification letters have been sent to anybody who just bought a house, and some have already been received back. Rena’s goal for this month is to collect data manuals and figure out how to gain access to documents that were on CJ's computer. John Rabbitt previously asked CJ about post-sales inspection, and he stated they haven’t had time to work on them. Sarah Cammer suggests a book be created of granted abatements for reference. There were also questions about whether the abatement will or has been added to the property record cards. Motor vehicle abatements were signed. ===PAGE 3===  Discuss Community Meeting to Update the Public on Q3 & Q4 Tax Bills 3rd quarter estimated bills will be sent. The re-eval actual bills won’t be received until February 1st. The deadline for filing an abatement is March 1st. The board wants to be as transparent as possible regarding information to the public. The main goal is to work on communication with the public. The plan is to Invite the town manager to an upcoming meeting to discuss how to communicate with and address the public.  Future Agenda Topics - John Rabbitt suggests creating a policies manual that includes land grading policy and a key to better understanding factors. - Agenda policy review will be added as a regular topic on the agenda. - Sarah Cammer suggests creating an organization of terms that are being used to assess. The 3 terms are good, bad, and poor. - Create procedures and charts for info that is being sent out and when deadlines are due. 4. Comments Board Comments  The board agrees that there needs to be communication with the office. If documents or letters are being sent out the board needs to be made aware and have documents date stamped  John Rabbitt suggests whoever makes the meeting agenda do a little research and bring essential materials to provide a basis for discussion.  Sarah Cammer is going to review the assessment and the DOR database to familiarize.  Rena Swezey will look at other communities for ideas/references regarding the webpage as the new webpage is being launched soon. Public Comment Nate Cramer will work with the IT department to save the valuations and billing values. 5. Upcoming Meeting Schedule The next meeting is scheduled for October 11th at 6:45 PM. 6. Adjournment Motion to adjourn by Sarah Cammer, seconded by John Rabbitt. The meeting closed at 9:00 PM. ======================================================================================== DOCUMENT : 2023-10-11-agenda-298.txt BOARD : board-of-assessors DATE : 2023-10-11 KIND : agenda OUR COPY : https://lunenburgbudgetproject.org/docs/minutes/text/board-of-assessors/2023-10-11-agenda-298.txt TOWN PDF : https://www.lunenburgma.gov/AgendaCenter/ViewFile/Agenda/_10112023-298 ======================================================================================== ===PAGE 1=== LUNENBURG BOARD OF ASSESSORS MEETING NOTICE AND AGENDA WEDNESDAY, OCTOBER 11, 2023 6:45 PM LIBRARY ROOM, EAGLE HOUSE 25 Memorial Drive This meeting will be held in-person at the location provided on this notice. Members of the public are welcome to attend this in-person meeting. Please note that while an option for remote attendance and/or participation is being provided as a courtesy to the public, the meeting will not be suspended or terminated if technological problems interrupt the virtual broadcast, unless otherwise required by law. Members of the public with particular interest in any specific item on this agenda should make plans for in-person vs. virtual attendance accordingly. To Participate Remotely: From a computer, please use the link below to join the public meeting webinar: https://zoom.us/j/7663167607 or From a telephone, dial the toll free number (888) 475-4499 and enter Webinar ID: 766-316- 7607 # If you have not registered with Zoom you will be asked for your name and an e-mail address. Note: No participant ID is needed, just press # when asked. Telephone users may dial *9 to request to speak after joining the meeting. Computer and app users may use the “raise hand” feature to request to speak. In accordance with the requirements of the Open Law Meeting Law, please be advised that this meeting will be recorded and can be found on the LunenburgAccess YouTube channel (http://www.youtube.com/user/LunenburgAccess/videos) within 24 hours of the meeting. The agenda lists all the topics which may be discussed at the meeting and are those reasonably anticipated by the Chair. Votes may be taken as a result of these discussions. Not all items listed may in fact be discussed and other items not listed may also be brought up for discussion to the extent permitted by Open Meeting Law. CALL TO ORDER OPENING PUBLIC COMMENT  Board  Public OLD BUSINESS  Approve Minutes of:  May 4, 2023,  May 16, 2023,  June 6, 2023,  June 29, 2023,  July 18, 2023,  August 1, 2023,  September 27, 2023  Review and Approve Expense Vouchers and Payroll  Status Report from Interim Principal Assessor ===PAGE 2=== NEW BUSINESS  Regular Meeting Schedule and Next Meeting Dates  Community Meeting to update public on Q3 & Q4 Property Tax Bills  Insert to be included in Q3 Property Tax Bills  Outreach  Seniors  Veterans  Lake Group(s)  Other  Building Value Policy.  Discussion – Add Seasonal Use Cottage  Off ground construction, no central heat, etc.  Other  Community Meeting to update public on Q3 & Q4 Property Tax Bills  Insert to be included in Q3 Property Tax Bills  Other Outreach. FUTURE AGENDA TOPICS  Review and Approve Senior / Veterans Exemptions  Review and Approve Chapter Land Exemptions  Software – Xembly discussion  Policy Establishment / Review  Land Value Policies / Propose Criteria. (i.e.: ◦ Topography ◦ Waterfront Quality ◦ Rights of way, Roadway, etc. ◦ Other)  Building Value Policies / Propose Criteria. (i.e.: ◦ New Categories  Data Storage. (i.e. Reason for previous approval of abatement)  Document Control CLOSING PUBLIC COMMENT  Public  Board ADJOURN TO EXECUTIVE SESSION – Motion to Adjourn, enter into Executive Session and not to return to Open Session after exiting Executive Session. Enter executive session under Purpose 7: "To comply with, or act under the authority of, any general or special law or federal grant-in-aid requirements". "Applications for abatement or exemption under this chapter shall, except in proceedings before the county commissioners, the appellate tax board or a court of the Commonwealth, be open only to the inspection of the assessors, the commissioner, the deputies, clerks and assistants of either the assessors or the commissioner and such other officials or designated private auditors of the Commonwealth." CH59 S60 of MGL is the law being cited. ADJOURN ======================================================================================== DOCUMENT : 2023-10-11-minutes-298.txt BOARD : board-of-assessors DATE : 2023-10-11 KIND : minutes OUR COPY : https://lunenburgbudgetproject.org/docs/minutes/text/board-of-assessors/2023-10-11-minutes-298.txt TOWN PDF : https://www.lunenburgma.gov/AgendaCenter/ViewFile/Minutes/_10112023-298 ======================================================================================== ===PAGE 1=== TOWN OF LUNENBURG BOARD OF ASSESSORS P. O . B OX 1 3 5 LUNENBURG, MA 01462 October 11, 2023 - Minutes Present Members: Vice Chair Sarah Cammer, Chair Brian Laffond, Clerk John RabbiƩ, Interim Principal Assessor Rena Swezey. 1. Call to Order The meeƟng opened at 6:45 PM. 2. Opening Public Comment  Board: No board comments.  Public: No public comments. 3. Old Business  Approve Minutes o MoƟon by Sarah Cammer, seconded by John RabbiƩ to approve the following meeƟng minutes: April 25, May 4, May 16, May 23, June 29, and July 18.  The below meeƟngs were amended for each listed reason. o May 25, June 8, and June 13: Removal of ChrisƟne Higdon from the members present list. o May 30 and June 15: AddiƟon of John RabbiƩ to the present members list. o June 6: Removal of ChrisƟne Higdon and addiƟon of John RabbiƩ to members present list. o August 1: CorrecƟon under board member comment secƟon relaƟng to who was nominated, voted for, and posiƟon. o MoƟon by Sarah Cammer, seconded by John RabbiƩ to approve the minutes above with the amendments.  Review and Approve Expense Vouchers and Payroll o Timesheets and expense vouchers from 9/12 to 10/4 regarding mileage by the Interim Assessor approved. All in favor. Table Interim Principal Assessor’s report unƟl Rena arrives. 4. New Business  Regular MeeƟng Schedule and Next MeeƟng Dates o MeeƟngs will be held on the 1st and 3rd Mondays of each month unƟl the end of December. Upcoming meeƟngs are as listed: November 6, November 20, December 4, and December 18.  Community MeeƟng to update public on Q3 & Q4 Property Tax Bills The Q3 tax bills will be esƟmated and the Q4 tax bills will be actual. Rena Swezey to confirm the dates exact dates. o Insert from the Treasurer to be included in Q3 Property Tax Bills ===PAGE 2===  The board will follow up with the town manager regarding the contents of the insert. The board votes that all members sign this insert. John RabbiƩ votes to have Chair Brian Laffond be the point of contact person to work with the town manager regarding the insert, seconded by Sarah Cammer. o Outreach  John RabbiƩ wants to work with Rena Swezey regarding outreach programs. Sarah Cammer inquired about how much Ɵme should be alloƩed to work on this project. The board agrees for John RabbiƩ and Rena Swezey to spend an hour per week on this project. Rena Swezey states that all exempƟons need to be submiƩed between January 1 and April 1.  Seniors:  Ms. Cammer states that while she is not opposed to increasing the amount of exclusion value for Seniors, it is not pracƟcal for this year, as it will require working through Town MeeƟng. She suggests working with current values.  Veterans:  Must have a service-connected disability to qualify for this program. John Rabbit suggests bringing in the veteran admissions officer to gain addiƟonal informaƟon.  Lake Group(s)  Tabled unƟl a future meeƟng. A discussion can be had once preliminary evaluaƟons are reviewed so that residents are aware of what to expect. Resume Old Business  Status Report from Interim Principal Assessor o Rena Swezey has emailed the board members inspecƟon reports of the new construcƟon that has been entered into the computer system. Sketches of the houses are not yet completed, and lot splits have not yet been added to the computer system. o Currently awaiƟng P&S for 2 parcels. MoƟon by Brian Laffond, seconded by Sarah Cammer to table discussion unƟl those are received. o Reopen discussion about Interim Principal Assessor Report of 9/27/2023  John RabbiƩ wants more involvement in acƟviƟes of outsourced product. Brian Laffond stated that if JR is making a moƟon to insert the BOA into regular working sessions, he would not second it as we must allow our hired agents to do their work.  JohnRabbiƩ suggested that the Interim Principal Assessor should aƩend the monthly Finance MeeƟng with the Town Manager. Brian Laffond will invesƟgate if that is necessary. ===PAGE 3===  John RabbiƩ asked if the Town is providing all the contracted requirements for the Vision contract. Rena Swezey stated yes to all requirements. o John RabbiƩ stated that Vision Property Cards and CAI Property Cards are out of date and don’t match. Rena Swezey stated that while the Vision cards are being updated and are done through the year, the CAI cards are AS OF January 1st each year, so they will not match for anything that changed throughout the year. o John RabbiƩ stated that there is a lot of informaƟon n the Vision Property Cards, but asked if we can add fields as we need for more detailed capability. Rena Swezey that we cannot add fields that do not already exist in Vision, but that Vision has many factors that Lunenburg is not currently using. We can work with Vision on most addiƟonal fields we choose to use.  We returned to some addiƟonal (RRC) bills that were overlooked earlier in the meeƟng. o There seemed to be some confusion on the dates on the bills and potenƟal duplicaƟon. The bills were not signed and will be returned to the office for clarificaƟon.  Building Value Policy. o Discussion – Add Seasonal Use CoƩage  Off-ground construcƟon, no central heat, etc.  Rena Swezey will draŌ a proposal for next meeƟng. 5. Future Agenda Topics  Review and Approve Senior / Veterans ExempƟons  Review and Approve Chapter Land ExempƟons  SoŌware – Xembly discussion  Policy Establishment / Review o Land Value Policies / Propose Criteria. (i.e.:  Topography  Waterfront Quality  Rights of way, Roadway, etc.  Other)  Building Value Policies / Propose Criteria. (i.e.: New Categories)  Data Storage. (i.e. Reason for previous approval of abatement)  Brian Laffond asked how we can see copies of Contracts and Service Proposals from our agents. Rena Swezey stated that those documents are not in the BOA office and we would need to ask the Town Manager. o Sarah Cammer made a moƟon to ask for copies of exisƟng Contracts and Service agreements. JR Second. Unanimously approved. o John RabbiƩ suggested that we ask for future involvement in development of RFPs and/or Contract deliverables and VerificaƟon of Performance.  Sarah Cammer stated we could review current data for exisƟng deliverables and Ɵmelines.  Brian Laffond cauƟoned that we need to make sure not to overstep the procurement process  Brian Laffond took acƟon item to follow up with Town Manager ===PAGE 4=== o John RabbiƩ also wants the BOA to have more say in personnel-related decisions  Brian stated that while BOA has raƟficaƟon authority, we can invite the Town Manager to discuss having a larger role in wriƟng job descripƟons for future openings  Document Control o Discussion about dates and stamping documents to create a record. o John RabbiƩ pointed out that he has discovered three different job descripƟons for the Principal Assessor. Brian Laffond will invesƟgate with Lunenburg’s HR person. 6. Closing Public Comment  Public Comment o Carl Luck suggests that all communicaƟon be added to the website and a noƟficaƟon is sent out when something new is posted. Carl Luck quesƟons why the vision cards aren’t updated to reflect the abatements and new assessments. There is expressed concern by Carl Luck that the taxes will rise again.  Board Comment o John RabbiƩ expresses that the board should be involved in preliminary meeƟngs for new hires. John RabbiƩ suggests having Julie Belliveau come to a future meeƟng to discuss job descripƟons. o Brian Laffond suggests having Nate Cramer come to the next meeƟng in November . There are some quesƟons regarding what services Nate provides. o John RabbiƩ inquiries about a discussion that will take place during the execuƟve session. ADJOURN TO EXECUTIVE SESSION – MoƟon to Adjourn, enter into ExecuƟve. MoƟon by Sarah Cammer to adjourn and enter into execuƟve session at 9:14 PM, seconded by John RabbiƩ. MoƟon to adjourn to enter into execuƟve session and not to return to open session aŌer the execuƟve session and were entering execuƟve session under purpose 7 to comply with or act under the authority of any general or special law or federal grant aid requirements quote applicaƟons for abatement or exempƟon under this chapter shall accept in proceedings before the County Commissions the appellant tax board or court of the Commonwealth be open only to the inspecƟon of the assessors the commissioner, the depuƟes, clerks, and assistance of either the assessors or the commissioner and such other officials or designated private auditor of the Commonwealth which is chapter 59 secƟon 60 of MGL and that’s the law being cited. ======================================================================================== DOCUMENT : 2023-11-06-minutes-2617.txt BOARD : board-of-assessors DATE : 2023-11-06 KIND : minutes OUR COPY : https://lunenburgbudgetproject.org/docs/minutes/text/board-of-assessors/2023-11-06-minutes-2617.txt TOWN PDF : https://www.lunenburgma.gov/AgendaCenter/ViewFile/Minutes/_11062023-2617 ======================================================================================== ===PAGE 1=== MINUTES LUNENBURG BOARD OF ASSESSORS MONDAY, NOVEMBER 6, 2023 6:30 PM BILOTTA ROOM, LUNENBURG TOWN HALL 17 MAIN ST. Present Members: Vice Chair Sarah Cammer, Chair Brian Laffond, Clerk John Rabbitt, Interim Principal Assessor Rena Swezey. CALL TO ORDER The meeting opened at 6:30 PM. OPENING PUBLIC COMMENT  Board Comment: o John Rabbit inquires if there is anyone admitting people into the Zoom meeting. Eric states he wasn’t provided a Zoom link and there wasn’t one on the agenda. Ultimately, a Zoom meeting was successfully created. o John Rabbitt shares DLS has a new tax reform bill. This will raise the maximum senior work off for abatements from 1,500 to 2,000 starting in 2025. Additionally, DLS Tax Reform also includes assistance for Low Income Housing Property Owners. o John Rabbitt shares that the state has guidelines to create compelling and comprehensive tax rate and classification presentations.  Public Comment: No public comment. OLD BUSINESS  Approve Minutes of September 27, 2023, and October 11, 2023 o The minutes from September 27, 2023, were amended as follows:  Corrected the spelling of Sarah Cammer’s last name under the future agenda topics.  Corrected spelling of Brian Laffond’s last name under board comment.  Corrected spelling of Nate Cramer’s last name.  All in favor needed to be added under the reorganization of the board. o Motion by Sarah Cammer to approve amended minutes from the September 27, 2023, meeting, seconded by John Rabbitt. All in favor. o Due to a technical issue, there is a large gap in the meeting minutes from October 11, 2023. Brian Laffond and Rena Swezey will try to recreate and fill in those gaps.  Review and Approve Invoices, Expense Vouchers, Payroll, etc. o Motion to approve annual membership fee for Massachusetts Associates of Assessing Offices by John Rabbitt, seconded by Sarah Cammer. All in favor o Motion to approve RRC personal property software for fiscal 2024 by John Rabbitt, seconded by Sarah Cammer. All in favor. ===PAGE 2=== o Motion to approve fee from Vision Government Solutions for fiscal 2023 by Sarah Cammer, seconded by John Rabbitt. All in favor. o Motion to approve the bill for advertising the principal assessor's position by Sarah Cammer, seconded by John Rabbitt. All in favor o Motion to approve two invoices from MFS by Sarah Cammer, seconded by John Rabbitt. All in favor. o Motion to approve WB Mason bill for office supplies by Sarah Cammer, seconded by John Rabbitt. All in favor. o Brian Laffond signed the postage fees for the Vision cards. o Motor vehicle abatements signed.  Status Report from Interim Principal Assessor  Discussion – Add Seasonal Use Cottage, Determine rate. o Rena Swezey suggested to CJ last winter that seasonal cottages should be added to the database. A seasonal cottage is defined as minimal, seasonally used with interior walls that aren’t finished. Brian questions if one of the criteria included is lack of central heat and Rena Swezey confirms. John Rabbitt pointed out the team voted and approved a definition of a Cottage to include dimensions (600 SqFt as well as lack of central heating. Team was to add this into Policies Definitions. o Rena Swezey contacted other communities to gain additional information. The seasonal cottage price per square foot locally is as follows: Groton is $63 per square foot, Littleton is $68.50 per square foot, and Ashburnham is $95 per square foot. o Rena Swezey spoke with Nate Cramer, and they agreed that $65 per square foot is a fair number for fiscal 2024. o Motion to approve the $65 per square foot rate for seasonal cottages by John Rabbitt, seconded by Sarah Cammer. All in favor.  Discussion on Estimated New Growth for FY24 o Rena Swezey has finished all building permits for new construction. The final number for new growth is $33,190,000 with total tax dollars being $484,203. o Motion by John Rabbitt to support the 400,000-dollar actual bill to get the new growth proposed by Heather Lemieux, seconded by Sarah Cammer. All in favor.  How to handle minutes of Executive Sessions. There was a brief discussion with Heather Lemieux regarding the minutes from the executive session. The motions to approve minutes are made during the executive session.  Status of Community Outreach  Senior Center Status of requests for improved collaboration with the Town Manager. ===PAGE 3===  Insert for Q3 Property Tax Bills Contact needs to be made with DOR about the third quarter billing. Heather Lemieux was put in touch with the town administrator who put her in touch with their treasure collection. A sample language was provided to Heather Lemieux to utilize to create a draft insert. This would need to be submitted by the beginning of December. This topic will be put on the agenda for November 20th to discuss further.  Existing Contracts An electronic folder is being created. This would include the contracts with Vision for the certification of values project, Vision camera software, Near Maps software.  Future RFP Development The board shares an interest in and wants to participate in future RFP developments. APPOINTMENT - 7:00 p.m.  Intros/ Updates – Vision /MFS: Mike Tarello, Nate Cramer, Heather Lemieux o Mike Tarello from Vision Government Solution has started to go through databases pulling records, sales information, land tables, building tables, depreciation schedules, and cost rates. Tarello has worked on the LA4 report and has been adding the data to the master file. o Once preliminary values are approved there will be a field review. The team will then review sales and then compare rates to the current values then compare rates to sales. o John Rabbitt questions the market value and asks to add granularity to the report. o Brian Laffond questions if there is a list of criteria that explains what is good, better, and best. Mike Tarello will set up a data collection guide that includes descriptions and field review guidelines. o Sarah Cammer asks Mike Tarello how his company will determine qualifying and non-qualifying sales. Mike Tarello gives several examples of unqualified sales: family sales, court settlements, estate sales, multiple parcels, intercorporate, and significant additions. o John Rabbitt shares that CJ was unable to keep up with taking off non-qualified sales from 2022. The board is to review the MLS and then give a list to Mike Tarello of any properties not showing up on MLS. o Sarah Cammer asks, when there is variation in quartiles percents, how will it be reconciled. o Brian Laffond asks if the folder previously referred to by Mike Tarello is a physical folder or virtual. Mike Tarello confirms both are made and a virtual appraisal file will be made available to the board. o John Rabbitt reviewed the “5 Year Assessment Year Review Agreement”, specific to Project Commitments made by the Twon of Lunenburg to Vision. Based on ===PAGE 4=== Mike’s and Rena’s confirmations; the project is on schedule and Lunenburg has provided all the agreed information required in the contract. NEW BUSINESS  Meeting with Nate Cramer of MFS o The board needs to prepare questions for an in-depth meeting with Nate Cramer of MFS on November 20, 2023. Currently, Nate Cramer has been working on a few ATB cases that were filed and working with Rena Swezey to get documents submitted to Gateway. o John Rabbitt has questions related to traffic adjustments and agrees to research examples from other towns. Nate Cramer expressed that these adjustments are sometimes listed on the site index. o John Rabbitt asks if Nate Cramer and MFS have a manual or portfolio. Nate Cramer states they do almost anything related to assessing but will give a list to Rena Swezey to distribute. o Nate- there is a webpage. Do almost anything related to assessing. Nate can give a comprehensive list to Rena to distribute. o Brian Laffond plans to get a copy of questions to Nate Cramer prior to the next meeting on November 20th.  Discuss responses to extensive citizen questions. - i.e. Carl Derner. o There have been many questions and inquiries submitted by citizens. The board will consolidate questions and put the answers on the webpage. Further discussion is tabled for another meeting. FUTURE AGENDA TOPICS Review and Approve Senior / Veterans Exemptions  Discuss implications for FY2024  Investigation 41C regarding seniors exemptions. o Review and Approve Chapter Land Exemptions o Software – Xembly discussion o Policy Establishment / Review  Land Value Policies / Propose Criteria.  Building Value Policies / Propose Criteria: New Categories  Data Storage. (i.e. Reason for previous approval of abatement.)  Document Control MEETING SCHEDULE The next meeting is November 20, 2023. CLOSING PUBLIC COMMENT ===PAGE 5===  Public Comment: o Carl Luck- Sunset Lane- thanks the board and is happy that a new category regarding cottages was created.  Board Comment: No board comments. ADJOURN TO EXECUTIVE SESSION – Motion to Adjourn by Sarah Cammer, seconded by John Rabbitt to enter into Executive Sessions not to return to Open Session after exiting Executive Sessions. All in favor. ADJOURN The meeting closed at 9PM. ======================================================================================== DOCUMENT : 2023-11-20-agenda-4149.txt BOARD : board-of-assessors DATE : 2023-11-20 KIND : agenda OUR COPY : https://lunenburgbudgetproject.org/docs/minutes/text/board-of-assessors/2023-11-20-agenda-4149.txt TOWN PDF : https://www.lunenburgma.gov/AgendaCenter/ViewFile/Agenda/_11202023-4149 ======================================================================================== ===PAGE 1=== LUNENBURG BOARD OF ASSESSORS MEETING NOTICE AND AGENDA MONDAY, NOVEMBER 20, 2023 6:30 PM BILOTTA ROOM, LUNENBURG TOWN HALL 17 MAIN ST. This meeting will be held in-person at the location provided on this notice. Members of the public are welcome to attend this in-person meeting. Please note that while an option for remote attendance and/or participation is being provided as a courtesy to the public, the meeting will not be suspended or terminated if technological problems interrupt the virtual broadcast, unless otherwise required by law. Members of the public with particular interest in any specific item on this agenda should make plans for in-person vs. virtual attendance accordingly. REMOTE PARTICIPATION From a computer, please use the link below to join the public meeting webinar: https://zoom.us/j/7663167607 or From a telephone, dial the toll free number (888) 475-4499 and enter Webinar ID: 766-316- 7607 # If you have not registered with Zoom you will be asked for your name and an e-mail address. Note: No participant ID is needed, just press # when asked. Telephone users may dial *9 to request to speak after joining the meeting. Computer and app users may use the “raise hand” feature to request to speak. In accordance with the requirements of the Open Law Meeting Law, please be advised that this meeting will be recorded and can be found on the LunenburgAccess YouTube channel (http://www.youtube.com/user/LunenburgAccess/videos) within 24 hours of the meeting. The agenda lists all the topics which may be discussed at the meeting and are those reasonably anticipated by the Chair. Votes may be taken as a result of these discussions. Not all items listed may in fact be discussed and other items not listed may also be brought up for discussion to the extent permitted by Open Meeting Law. CALL TO ORDER OPENING COMMENTS  Board  Public OLD BUSINESS  Approve Minutes of: October 11, 2023, November 6, 2023  Review and Approve Invoices, Expense Vouchers, Payroll, etc.  Status Report from Interim Principal Assessor  Status of Community Outreach  Senior Center  Status of requests for improved collaboration with Town Manager  Insert for Q3 Property Tax Bills  Existing Contracts  Future RFP Development  Discuss response to extensive citizen questions. - i.e. Derner, Lucks. APPOINTMENT - 7:00 p.m.  Questions for MFS: Nate Cramer ===PAGE 2=== LUNENBURG BOARD OF ASSESSORS MEETING NOTICE AND AGENDA NEW BUSINESS  Website improvements  Melrose vs Lunenburg review  Other suggestions  Field Inspection Manual / Data Collection Manual draft review  Potential for ad-hoc citizen committee(s) to aid board members FUTURE AGENDA TOPICS  Review and Approve Senior / Veterans Exemptions  Discuss implications for FY2024  Review and Approve Chapter Land Exemptions  Software – Xembly discussion  Policy Establishment / Review  Land Value Policies / Propose Criteria  Building Value Policies / Propose Criteria: New Categories  Data Storage. (i.e. Reason for previous approval of abatement)  Document Control CLOSING COMMENTS  Public  Board ENTER EXECUTIVE SESSION – Motion to Adjourn, enter into Executive Session not to return to Open Session after exiting Executive Session. ADJOURN EXECUTIVE SESSION 1 Motion to enter executive session under Purpose 7: "To comply with, or act under the authority of, any general or special law or federal grant-in-aid requirements". "Applications for abatement or exemption under this chapter shall, except in proceedings before the county commissioners, the appellate tax board or a court of the Commonwealth, be open only to the inspection of the assessors, the commissioner, the deputies, clerks and assistants of either the assessors or the commissioner and such other officials or designated private auditors of the Commonwealth." CH59 S60 of MGL is the law being cited. ======================================================================================== DOCUMENT : 2023-11-20-minutes-4149.txt BOARD : board-of-assessors DATE : 2023-11-20 KIND : minutes OUR COPY : https://lunenburgbudgetproject.org/docs/minutes/text/board-of-assessors/2023-11-20-minutes-4149.txt TOWN PDF : https://www.lunenburgma.gov/AgendaCenter/ViewFile/Minutes/_11202023-4149 ======================================================================================== ===PAGE 1=== LUNENBURG BOARD OF ASSESSORS MONDAY , NOVEMBER 20, 2023 BILOTTA ROOM, LUNENBURG TOWN HALL Present Members: Vice Chair Sarah Cammer, Chair Brian Laffond, Clerk John RabbiƩ, Interim Principal Assessor Rena Swezey. CALL TO ORDER The meeƟng opened at 6:36 PM. OPENING COMMENTS  Board Comments - John RabbiƩ shares informaƟon regarding the senior work off program that takes $2,000 a year off on taxes. - John Rabbi Ʃ looked at CAI property card and the Vision property card and noƟced a discrepancy in the assessment amount. John RabbiƩ shared that he is worried that the informaƟon is being pulled and the numbers aren’t lining up. John RabbiƩ suggests that Brian Laffond sit down with operaƟons and the town manager to see if there is a system leak and find out why that’s happening. Brian Laffond believes this is a mis-characterizaƟon. Rena Swezey confirms that the Vision system is not currently up to date and the informaƟon is not correct. Sarah Cammer suggests adding this item to the next agenda, so members can read and review prior to having a discussion.  Public Comment - No public comment. OLD BUSINESS  Approve Minutes of: October 11, 2023, and November 6, 2023 -T h e m e eƟngs from October 11 sƟll need to be reviewed by the Board to fill in gaps in minutes due to audio issues. - The minutes for November 6 th were not approved as wriƩen and amendments will be made. John RabbiƩ has numerous correcƟons and/or specific wording to be included. Brian Laffond has noted all of John Rabbits addiƟons and will make the necessary adjustments. Sarah Cammer has 2 correcƟons that she will give to Rena Swezey and Brian Laffond to adjust minutes. - John Rabbi Ʃ informs the Board that the minutes from the September 27th meeƟng are not currently on the town website. Brian Laffond and Rena Swezey will inquire to get them added.  Review and Approve Invoices, Expense Vouchers, Payroll, etc.  Status Report from Interim Principal Assessor ===PAGE 2=== - Rena Swezey has been working with th e tax collector, Marlene, and they are geƫng files ready for the third quarter billing. Rena Swezey has met with Vision, and she is working on creaƟng a data collecƟon manual. - John Rabbi Ʃ quesƟons if there is a schedule or plan. Rena Swezey states the schedule being used is from the DOR and is being used as guidelines. Brian Laffond has a meeƟng scheduled with Mike Tarello and DOR on December 5th to create a more detailed list with a schedule.  Status of Community Outreach Senior Center - Senior Center John RabbiƩ and Rena Swezey are going to be seƫng up a meeƟng prior to their presentaƟon regarding exempƟons. The senior exempƟons can start to be filled aŌer the first of the year.  Status of requests for improved collaboraƟon with Town Manager - Insert for Q3 Property Tax Bills John RabbiƩ suggests some sort of aƩachment with a visual or Ɵmeline could be beneficial to provide. Rena Swezey states that all informaƟon being provided is on the website and only certain things can be put in a leƩer in a tax bill. Brian Laffond agrees some visuals will be helpful. Brian Laffond will talk to Heather Lemieux to discuss it further. -E x i s Ɵng Contracts The Board wants a copy of all contracts. - Future RFP Development Brian Laffond will be meeƟng with CAI, DOR and the town manager.  Discuss response to extensive ciƟzen quesƟons. - i.e. Derner, Lucks. There were 30 to 35 quesƟons that were received by the public. The Board will give this list of quesƟons to Nate Cramer to get his responses. Once answers are received, they will be added to the website. APPOINTMENT - 7:00 p.m.  QuesƟons for MFS: Nate Cramer Rena Swezey sent a list of quesƟons to Nate Cramer prior to the scheduled meeƟng. Below are the public quesƟons with a response by Nate Cramer. - Why is there such a di fference in the percentage of total value for below average, average, and good properƟes? o Sales were used to determine the adjustments which were based on trends that were seen specific to waterfront properƟes. -I f w e a r e m e nƟoning curves and calculaƟons in the answer, can we see a diagram and walk through the calculaƟons? o The calculaƟon uses only sales data. Percentage differences are based on the sales of the different Ɵers. - When are assessed values considered lo w compared to current sales? How did you determine how much to increase? ===PAGE 3=== o The determinaƟon is based on the assessment to raƟo sale. The current assessment is divided by the most recent sale price of that property. The median ASR for the whole class is between 90% and 100% of market value. Typically, towns tend to run at 95%. - When assessed values are higher than current sales how do you determine how much to decrease values? o Same answer as above. There may come a point when the assessed values trail behind what the markets are showing, and values may become higher than what they could sell for. - What market factors should be implemen ted around town and where in order to accommodate differences between the quarƟle’s ranges? o Some suggesƟons that were previously menƟoned include topography, fire roads, easements, and right of way. - How is an assessor to know when it is more appropriate to follow the qualified sales method your group chose versus the original method Lunenburg followed for the past year? o Nate Cramer states that CJ did his calculaƟons the correct way based on the informaƟon he had and what he was familiar with. What he was not aware of was that most of those sales were not representaƟve of most of those homes on the water. - What checks and balances ar e missing from the Lunenburg office that you’ve seen in other town? o Lunenburg is a 2-person office, and all the values are calculated in-house. Mike Tarello would have a beƩer answer as he is much more familiar with the communiƟes that are around Lunenburg. They are aware of the trends and what to look for. AddiƟonally, the tax rate dropped $3 dollars which is a red flag, and 15 cents is considered a big change. QuesƟons from John RabbiƩ - When you met with CJ did you build fit models to arrive at those numbers? o Stats were used including the ASR, codes, and guidelines. There are requirements that need to be met through the commissioner of revenue that Ɵghtened up those numbers. The data provided was not Ɵered and there was only one price of land no maƩer where it was on the lake. It was one price per square foot universally. - Is there any de finiƟon to use to define slopes for topography. o There are a lot of gray areas. If there is more than a 45 degree slope it is considered to be a non-usable area. - How do you grade a bathroom or kitchen? o There is a place on the property cards to list extra features. This will add more value. The grade refers to the quality of construcƟon. It’s very rare to change the grade of a property unless the home was completely guƩed with renovaƟon. ===PAGE 4=== NEW BUSINESS  Website improvements o Melrose vs Lunenburg review Melrose has a very extensive website. John RabbiƩ believes there are a lot of things to be added to our website including a site map. John RabbiƩ also believes there should be addiƟonal informaƟon for seniors since a third of the town’s populaƟon are seniors. Brian Laffond suggests puƫng together an archive of documents that are old and not as relevant. Brian Laffond volunteered John RabbiƩ to work with the person who runs the town website to help evolve. o Other suggesƟons  Neighborhood map once one is completed.  A secƟon for commonly asked quesƟons.  Field InspecƟon Manual / Data CollecƟon Manual draŌ review Brian Laffond quesƟons when a draŌ will be able to review. Rena Swezey hopes to have a draŌ within the next few meeƟngs. This topic has been added on the agenda for the December 4th meeƟng.  PotenƟal for ad-hoc ciƟzen commiƩee(s) to aid Board members. o There has been interested by residents looking for a way to help. o Brian Laffond believes the Board should take as many resources as possible. Brian Laffond also states any ciƟzen would be a non-voƟng member. Brian Laffond will do some addiƟonal research. o Rena Swezey states that veterans and seniors’ informaƟon is confidenƟal. o John RabbiƩ suggests this may be a good opportunity to potenƟally train people for the future of the Board. FUTURE AGENDA TOPICS  Review and Approve Senior / Veterans ExempƟons RecommendaƟons are sƟll being developed and will be added to upcoming agendas. The bullets below were added as an agenda items for the next meeƟng. o Discuss implicaƟons for FY2024  Review and Approve Chapter Land ExempƟons  SoŌware – Xembly discussion  Policy Establishment / Review o Land Value Policies / Propose Criteria o Building Value Policies / Propose Criteria: New Categories o Data Storage. (i.e. Reason for previous approval of abatement) ===PAGE 5=== o Document Control CLOSING COMMENTS  Public - Anna Lockwood- 91 Main Stre et– refers to a prior meeƟng regarding rules and responsibiliƟes. She menƟons her experience with the gray area and how it was helpful. It can be used to create accountability in small groups and the gray area shouldn’t be eliminated. - Carl Luck – 50 Sunset Lane-shares he is happy that the Board is addressing quesƟons from the public. States the answers from Nate Cramer were so high level that they weren’t helpful to him. At a prior meeƟng with different Board members a draŌ was presented by Nate Cramer and wanted it published. When the final report came out 3-4 weeks later the numbers were ridiculous. Carl Luck requests a copy of the draŌ to see what changed and why. He requests to see the math and the Board will reach out to Nate Cramer and request that informaƟon. - Phyllis Luck – 50 Sunset Lane- suggests that people can work in subcommiƩees to gather data and informaƟon from other towns.  Board Comment - Sarah Cammer suggests some future ag enda items should include an update on senior policies and create a list of changes or addiƟons to the website. - John Rabbi Ʃ suggests a Master Project Plan: topics to include policies manual, organizaƟon chart, contract suppliers, senior outreach program, Ɵmeline of when items can be addressed, and invesƟgaƟon of property cards. -B r i a n L affond suggests subcommiƩees for addiƟonal help or an addiƟon of members to the Board. ADJOURN TO EXECUTIVE SESSION - MoƟon to Adjourn by Sarah Cammer, seconded by John RabbiƩ to enter into ExecuƟve Session not to return to Open Session aŌer exiƟng ExecuƟve Session. Roll call vote. ADJOURN The meeƟng closed at 9:04 PM. ======================================================================================== DOCUMENT : 2023-12-04-agenda-6128.txt BOARD : board-of-assessors DATE : 2023-12-04 KIND : agenda OUR COPY : https://lunenburgbudgetproject.org/docs/minutes/text/board-of-assessors/2023-12-04-agenda-6128.txt TOWN PDF : https://www.lunenburgma.gov/AgendaCenter/ViewFile/Agenda/_12042023-6128 ======================================================================================== ===PAGE 1=== LUNENBURG BOARD OF ASSESSORS MEETING NOTICE AND AGENDA MONDAY, DECEMBER 4, 2023 6:30 PM BILOTTA ROOM, LUNENBURG TOWN HALL 17 MAIN ST. This meeting will be held in-person at the location provided on this notice. Members of the public are welcome to attend this in-person meeting. Please note that while an option for remote attendance and/or participation is being provided as a courtesy to the public, the meeting will not be suspended or terminated if technological problems interrupt the virtual broadcast, unless otherwise required by law. Members of the public with particular interest in any specific item on this agenda should make plans for in-person vs. virtual attendance accordingly. REMOTE PARTICIPATION From a computer, please use the link below to join the public meeting webinar: https://zoom.us/j/7663167607 or From a telephone, dial the toll free number (888) 475-4499 and enter Webinar ID: 766-316- 7607 # If you have not registered with Zoom you will be asked for your name and an e-mail address. Note: No participant ID is needed, just press # when asked. Telephone users may dial *9 to request to speak after joining the meeting. Computer and app users may use the “raise hand” feature to request to speak. In accordance with the requirements of the Open Law Meeting Law, please be advised that this meeting will be recorded and can be found on the LunenburgAccess YouTube channel (http://www.youtube.com/user/LunenburgAccess/videos) within 24 hours of the meeting. The agenda lists all the topics which may be discussed at the meeting and are those reasonably anticipated by the Chair. Votes may be taken as a result of these discussions. Not all items listed may in fact be discussed and other items not listed may also be brought up for discussion to the extent permitted by Open Meeting Law. CALL TO ORDER OPENING COMMENTS  Board  Public OLD BUSINESS  Approve Minutes of: October 11, 2023 (Gap), November 6, 2023 (with amendments), November 20, 2023 (if ready)  Review and Approve Invoices, Expense Vouchers, Payroll, Billing Errors, etc.  Sign Proforma Recap – Paper / Gateway (online)  61B Acceptance of Affidavit  Status Report from Interim Principal Assessor  Status of Community Outreach  Senior Center  Develop “How to read your Vision card” (for Website, other?)  Status of requests for improved collaboration with Town Manager  Insert for Q3 Property Tax Bills  Existing Contracts / Service Agreements / Statements of Work  RRC PP Maintenance, Vision CAMA S/W, NearMap Arc/GIS, CAI Tax Map Maintenance  Future RFP Development ===PAGE 2=== LUNENBURG BOARD OF ASSESSORS MEETING NOTICE AND AGENDA  Discuss response to extensive citizen questions. - i.e. Derner, Lucks, Blatt.  Finalize / Approve Data Collection Manual (aka Field Inspection Manual)  Potential for ad-hoc citizen committee(s) to aid board members  Website improvements  Melrose vs Lunenburg review  Add Data Collection Manual  Add link to YouTube of Meetings  Create and Add “How to read my Vision Card”  Other (Board vs. Department?) NEW BUSINESS  CAI – Currently we “freeze” Property Record Card as of January 1 each year  Discuss updating more frequently  Guidelines for Public Comment  Review Property Cards for recent abatement requests / Investigate differences  Assessment Reconciliation – Sample Findings  Most “Neighborhood” designations are currently not populated (or nil)  Corrective Action Request proposal (includes Tracking / Closure) FUTURE AGENDA TOPICS  Review and Approve Senior / Veterans Exemptions  Discuss implications for FY2024  Review and Approve Chapter Land Exemptions  Software – Xembly discussion  Policy Establishment / Review  Land Value Policies / Propose Criteria  Building Value Policies / Propose Criteria: New Categories  Data Storage. (i.e. Reason for previous approval of abatement)  Document Control  Schedule Future Zoom Session for Public Q&A with Nate Cramer CLOSING COMMENTS  Public  Board ADJOURN ======================================================================================== DOCUMENT : 2023-12-04-minutes-6128.txt BOARD : board-of-assessors DATE : 2023-12-04 KIND : minutes OUR COPY : https://lunenburgbudgetproject.org/docs/minutes/text/board-of-assessors/2023-12-04-minutes-6128.txt TOWN PDF : https://www.lunenburgma.gov/AgendaCenter/ViewFile/Minutes/_12042023-6128 ======================================================================================== ===PAGE 1=== LUNENBURG BOARD OF ASSESSORS MONDAY , DECEMBER 4, 2023 BILOTTA ROOM, LUNENBURG TOWN HALL Present Members: Vice Chair Sarah Cammer, Chair Brian Laffond, Clerk John RabbiƩ, Interim Principal Assessor Rena Swezey. CALL TO ORDER The meeƟng opened at 6:41PM. OPENING COMMENTS - Board o No board comments. - Public o No public comment. OLD BUSINESS - Approve Minutes of: October 11, 2023 (Gap), November 6, 2023 (with amendments), November 20, 2023 (if ready) o The October 11th minutes will be addressed at the next meeƟng. o There was a moƟon by John RabbiƩ to approve the minutes from November 6th, seconded by Sarah Cammer. All in favor. o The minutes from November 20th were tabled to the next meeƟng as they were received the same day as the meeƟng. o John RabbiƩ again confirms that the September 27th minutes are sƟll not posted on the website. Brian Laffond will follow up with whoever uploads minutes to the website. - Review and Approve Invoices, Expense Vouchers, Payroll, Billing Errors, etc. o The following invoices and abatements were signed:  2 invoices from CAI technology mapping company  3 copies to sign for Motor vehicle abatements.  5 property tax abatements for exempt properƟes  Sign Proforma Recap – Paper / Gateway (online) AŌer a discussion with Heather Lemieux, it was confirmed there are no paper copies, but it can be signed electronically via Gateway.  61B Acceptance of Affidavit - Status Report from Interim Principal Assessor Rena Swezey has been working with the tax collector, Marlene, to file the third quarter tax bills. Rena Swezey has also completed the data collecƟon manual. An email containing the manual was sent to the Board and Mike Tarello. ===PAGE 2=== There were 20 homes in the database that were classified as seasonal homes that were subsequently changed to the classificaƟon of summer camps. Brian Laffond, Rena Swezey, and Heather Lemieux met with Tim Fountain from CAI to address the problems with the property cards. During the meeƟng there was a discussion about soŌware that is included in the contract that was not being uƟlized. There is an opportunity to update property cards to reflect a change in ownership that can be updated on a monthly or every few weeks basis. Tim Fountain talked about an advanced query program which can set neighborhood layers and site indexes. There is a one-Ɵme cost of $1,800 for this addiƟonal program. Rena Swezey sent lot spits to CAI to digiƟze and map. Once they are digiƟzed and mapped the Board is given 30 to 45 days to make any adjustments. The town was approved to fix or edit unƟl December 31 st. The creaƟon of the maps will include the 2022 changes and January 1st of 2023. Going forward these maps will be updated on a yearly basis. Regarding mapping there were some sketches that weren’t brought over or were missing. These can be added to the map at the rate of an addiƟonal 20 dollars per sketch. Sarah Cammer quesƟons if the 400 abatements can be added to property cards to show the abated values. If approved, they will appear on the July 1st cards. - Status of Community Outreach o Senior Center Rena Swezey met with John RabbiƩ and provided some addiƟonal materials. There was a discussion about a presentaƟon date in early March. This would be ideal as seniors have unƟl April 1st to file abatements and exempƟons. To date the board currently hasn’t signed all the applicaƟons. John RabbiƩ has researched other local towns, specifically Groton. John RabbiƩ quesƟons how the town works with affordable housing and if it’s similar to Groton. Rena Swezey states it is a separate department that’s not part of the Town of Groton. o Develop “How to read your Vision card” (for Website, other?) From research Sarah Cammer has found a template from the Town of Concord that she found informaƟve. Sarah Cammer will use an example template to be added to the website. - Status of requests for improved collabora Ɵon with Town Manager o Insert for Q3 Property Tax Bills Prior to the meeƟng Brian Laffond did speak to Heather Lemieux and provided the latest draŌ of the insert. Asked if she could include some sort of graphic depicƟon of the Ɵmeline. ===PAGE 3=== o ExisƟng Contracts / Service Agreements / Statements of Work  RRC PP Maintenance, Vision CAMA S/W, NearMap Arc/GIS, CAI Tax Map Maintenance, MFS  Future RFP Development - Discuss response to extensive ci Ɵzen quesƟons. - i.e. Derner, Lucks, BlaƩ. Brian Laffond is tabling this discussion to a future meeƟng, so the board has addiƟonal Ɵme to review. - Finalize / Approve Data Collec Ɵon Manual (aka Field InspecƟon Manual) There was a moƟon by John RabbiƩ, seconded by Sarah Cammer to accept the data collecƟon manual that was revised on December 4, 2023. It was agreed that this will be a living document, subject to change. All changes are to be approved by the BOA. All in favor. -P o t e n Ɵal for ad-hoc ciƟzen commiƩee(s) to aid board members The Board has not had a chance to discuss this so this was tabled to the next meeƟng. - Website improvements John RabbiƩ sent his presentaƟon on the day of the meeƟng and all the board members couldn’t review so there was no in-depth conversaƟon. RecommendaƟons to improve website include adding: a vision statement, mission statement, ethics statement, past tax assessment invesƟgaƟons, news secƟon just for the assessor’s department, picture of members, agenda center, link to YouTube meeƟngs. All these ideas will be run by Heather Lemieux for further discussion and recommendaƟons.  Melrose vs Lunenburg review  Add Data CollecƟon Manual  Add link to YouTube of MeeƟngs  Create and Add “How to read my Vision Card”  Other (Board vs. Department?) NEW BUSINESS - CAI – Currently we “freeze” Property Record Card as of January 1 each year o Discuss updaƟng more frequently The board approved that changes can be added to living documents when necessary. - Guidelines for Public Comment ===PAGE 4=== Brian Laffond states that some comments from the Board and the public can be lengthy and off topic. There was a discussion about seƫng a Ɵme limit for all comments. If there is a lengthy discussion it should be added to the agenda. - Review Property Cards for recent abatement requests / Inves Ɵgate differences o Assessment ReconciliaƟon – Sample Findings This discussion is tabled to the next meeƟng. o Most “Neighborhood” designaƟons are currently not populated (or nil) The town doesn’t have many neighborhoods and Rena Swezey states that the DOR prefers a lesser number of neighborhoods. This will be reflected on the new maps from CAI. -C o r r e cƟve AcƟon Request proposal (includes Tracking / Closure) o John RabbiƩ suggests that a methodology be put in place to assure that the processes put in place stay reliable. If a mistake is made to idenƟfy the problem and try to remedy it. An invesƟgaƟon into the root cause to decrease repeats. o Rena Swezey states that property record cards have an audit trail to reflect changes. The only changes that are reflected are new construcƟon, exempƟons, and abatements. o Brian Laffond confirms that a root cause of issues needs to be found versus a specific change. People who are qualified to do the work will have the data collecƟon manual. FUTURE AGENDA TOPICS - Review and Approve Senior / Veterans Exemp Ɵons This will be discussed aŌer the first of the year and will be brought to the town meeƟng in May. o Discuss implicaƟons for FY2024 - Review and Approve Chapter Land Exemp Ɵons The board confirms that this will be a long process and include a lot of signatures from the Board. -S o Ōware – Xembly discussion This was added as a future agenda topic for upcoming meeƟng. - Policy Establishment / Review- The board feels that this has been addressed and can be removed from any future agendas as this is being implemented. o Land Value Policies / Propose Criteria o Building Value Policies / Propose Criteria: New Categories ===PAGE 5=== o Data Storage. (i.e. Reason for previous approval of abatement) o Document Control - Schedule Future Zoom Session fo r Public Q&A with Nate Cramer Nate Cramer has responded to the quesƟons previously provided. CLOSING COMMENTS - Public Dave MacDonald - 155 Island Road- thanks the Board for their work. Brian Laffond expresses that their goal is to re-create trust within the town. Carl Luck - 50 Sunset Lane - shares his ongoing concern regarding abatement values and vision cards. Carl Luck looked at over 100 properƟes that were listed as good and noted that every good property from the 2024 vision card was inflated by 8%. Carl Luck wants to know where the calculaƟons are to support the percent increase. There is sƟll a request to see the numbers from qualified sales numbers, ASR, to draŌ report recommendaƟon and final recommendaƟons. Rena Swezey confirms there will be a total field review completed for 2024. AddiƟonally, a whole new land schedule will take place and a drive by on every street. The Board will confirm but believes that Mike Tarello will be starƟng all over with a clean slate. Regarding ad hoc Carl Luck believes that there are tasks that residents can help with. One suggesƟon is to create a Ɵmeline of the process. Carl Luck also shares that these subcommiƩees should be formal. Brian Laffond agrees and confirms that any meeƟngs will be held in the public eye. Brian Laffond confirms that the suggesƟon of the subcommiƩee name of ad hoc was specifically regarding the fact that these residents would not have voƟng rights. -B o a r d o Sarah Cammer suggests creaƟng a One drive for the assessor’s board to assure that documents are being archived electronically. o There was a moƟon by Sarah Cammer, seconded by John RabbiƩ to accept the minutes compiled by Rena Swezey from the execuƟve session on October 11th and November 6th. All in favor. These minutes can be added to the file but not publicly posted unƟl Abatement/ ATB resoluƟon. o John RabbiƩ posed a quesƟon in regard to the Tanner Cole Property (61B). Rena Swezey states there is no word yet and the selectman has 120 days to act. ADJOURN MoƟon to adjourn by John RabbiƩ, seconded by Sarah Cammer. The meeƟng closed at 8:50 PM. ======================================================================================== DOCUMENT : 2023-12-18-agenda-6136.txt BOARD : board-of-assessors DATE : 2023-12-18 KIND : agenda OUR COPY : https://lunenburgbudgetproject.org/docs/minutes/text/board-of-assessors/2023-12-18-agenda-6136.txt TOWN PDF : https://www.lunenburgma.gov/AgendaCenter/ViewFile/Agenda/_12182023-6136 ======================================================================================== ===PAGE 1=== LUNENBURG BOARD OF ASSESSORS MEETING NOTICE AND AGENDA MONDAY, DECEMBER 18, 2023 6:30 PM BILOTTA ROOM, LUNENBURG TOWN HALL 17 MAIN ST. This meeƟng will be held in-person at the locaƟon provided on this noƟce. Members of the public are welcome to aƩend this in-person meeƟng. Please note that while an opƟon for remote aƩendance and/or parƟcipaƟon is being provided as a courtesy to the public, the meeƟng will not be suspended or terminated if technological problems interrupt the virtual broadcast, unless otherwise required by law. Members of the public with parƟcular interest in any specific item on this agenda should make plans for in-person vs. virtual aƩendance accordingly. REMOTE PARTICIPATION From a computer, please use the link below to join the public meeƟng webinar: https://us02web.zoom.us/j/89145894468 or Join Zoom Meeting Meeting ID: 891 4589 4468 From a telephone, dial the toll free number (888) 475-4499 and enter Webinar ID: 891 4589 4468 # If you have not registered with Zoom you will be asked for your name and an e-mail address. Note: No parƟcipant ID is needed, just press # when asked. Telephone users may dial *9 to request to speak aŌer joining the meeƟng. Computer and app users may use the “raise hand” feature to request to speak. In accordance with the requirements of the Open Law MeeƟng Law, please be advised that this meeƟng will be recorded and can be found on the LunenburgAccess YouTube channel (hƩp://www.youtube.com/user/LunenburgAccess/videos) within 24 hours of the meeƟng. The agenda lists all the topics which may be discussed at the meeƟng and are those reasonably anƟcipated by the Chair. Votes may be taken as a result of these discussions. Not all items listed may in fact be discussed and other items not listed may also be brought up for discussion to the extent permiƩed by Open MeeƟng Law. CALL TO ORDER OPENING COMMENTS  Board  Public OLD BUSINESS  Approve Minutes of: April 4, 2023, October 11, 2023 (Gap), November 20, 2023, December 4, 2023 (if ready)  Review and Approve Invoices, Expense Vouchers, Payroll, Billing Errors, etc.  Status Report from Interim Principal Assessor (Rena Swezey)  Status of Community Outreach  Senior Center (Jack Rabbitt) - Tentatively scheduled for Early March.  Develop “How to Read Your Vision Card” (Sarah Cammer)  Status of requests for improved collaboration with Town Manager  Insert for Q3 Property Tax Bills  Future RFP Development ===PAGE 2=== LUNENBURG BOARD OF ASSESSORS MEETING NOTICE AND AGENDA  Status of Website improvements (Jack Rabbitt)  CAI – Currently we “freeze” Property Record Card as of January 1 each year  Discuss updating more frequently  Review Property Cards for recent abatement requests / Investigate differences  Assessment Reconciliation – Sample Findings (Sarah Cammer)  Discuss response to extensive citizen questions. - i.e. Derner, Lucks, Blatt.  Determine Work-plan  Corrective Action Request proposal (includes Tracking / Closure)  Potential for ad-hoc citizen committee(s) to aid board members NEW BUSINESS FUTURE AGENDA TOPICS  Review and Approve Senior / Veterans Exemptions  Discuss implications for FY2024  Review and Approve Chapter Land Exemptions  Software – Xembly discussion  Schedule Future Zoom Session for Public Q&A with Nate Cramer NEXT MEETING  January 8, 2024 – Note: at Senior Center CLOSING COMMENTS  Public  Board ENTER EXECUTIVE SESSION – Suspend open meeting and enter into Executive Session, not to return to Open Session after exiting Executive Session. EXECUTIVE SESSION MoƟon to enter execuƟve session under Purpose 7: "To comply with, or act under the authority of, any general or special law or federal grant-in-aid requirements". "ApplicaƟons for abatement or exempƟon under this chapter shall, except in proceedings before the county commissioners, the appellate tax board or a court of the Commonwealth, be open only to the inspecƟon of the assessors, the commissioner, the depuƟes, clerks and assistants of either the assessors or the commissioner and such other officials or designated private auditors of the Commonwealth." CH59 S60 of MGL is the law being cited. ADJOURN ======================================================================================== DOCUMENT : 2023-12-18-minutes-6136.txt BOARD : board-of-assessors DATE : 2023-12-18 KIND : minutes OUR COPY : https://lunenburgbudgetproject.org/docs/minutes/text/board-of-assessors/2023-12-18-minutes-6136.txt TOWN PDF : https://www.lunenburgma.gov/AgendaCenter/ViewFile/Minutes/_12182023-6136 ======================================================================================== ===PAGE 1=== LUNENBURG BOARD OF ASSESSORS MONDAY , DECEMBER 18, 2023 BILOTTA ROOM, LUNENBURG TOWN HALL Present Members: Vice Chair Sarah Cammer, Chair Brian Laffond, Clerk John RabbiƩ, Interim Principal Assessor Rena Swezey. CALL TO ORDER The meeƟng opened at 6:30 PM. OPENING COMMENTS  Board o John RabbiƩ discusses the tax reform regarding the senior work off program. The new law states the work off program has been raised from 1,500 to 2,000 a year. o John RabbiƩ has some quesƟons regarding the classificaƟon hearing. Rena Swezey confirms that only a recommendaƟon from the Board of Assessors is made regarding whether to go with a single rate or a split rate. The Board of Selectman makes the ulƟmate vote. John RabbiƩ has found an extensive classificaƟon presentaƟon from the city of Melrose. Rena Swezey confirms that Nate Cramer knows exactly what goes into the presentaƟon. John RabbiƩ requests to be more involved.  Public o Carl Luck - 50 Sunset Lane- raised concern that on the current Vision cards lakefront property owners have an addiƟonal percentage added. The abatements valued at average were raised an addiƟonal 4 percent and the homes listed as good were raised an addiƟonal 8 percent. Brian Laffond requested a list of quesƟons regarding concerns similar to the quesƟons listed below. - Will the 2023 and 2024 property cards not be used by the current contractor? If that’s not true what will be used from the current database and what won’t be used? - Will the 2023 vision cards sƟll reflect the 135% across the board in case and not the abated values? - How will the abatements be communicated to the contractor or is this something they don’t even consider? - Is the whole town starƟng new or just the lakefront properƟes? - When can we get these new answers? - When will inspecƟons for properƟes be scheduled? o Rena Swezey confirms that Vision has someone out right now reviewing all the properƟes that have sold. Municipal Finance Services (MFS) crew will be out in the first couple weeks of January doing drive-bys and checking property cards all over town. They will be reviewing the data on the property cards. ===PAGE 2=== OLD BUSINESS  Approve Minutes of: April 4, 2023, October 11, 2023 (Gap), November 20, 2023, December 4, 2023 (if ready) o The minutes from April 4th with the Select Board have been recreated. MoƟon to approve the minutes by Sarah Cammer, seconded by John RabbiƩ. All in favor. o The minutes from October 11th have been modified several Ɵmes. MoƟon to approve minutes with modificaƟons by Sarah Cammer, seconded by John RabbiƩ. All in favor. o MoƟon to approve the minutes from November 20th meeƟng with modificaƟons by John RabbiƩ, seconded by Sarah Cammer. All in favor. o MoƟon to approve the minutes from the December 4th meeƟng with modificaƟons by Sarah Cammer, seconded by John RabbiƩ. All in favor. o There was menƟon of a meeƟng on June 7th. The board was unable to find any notes or videos. It may not have been a public meeƟng.  Review and Approve Invoices, Expense Vouchers, Payroll, Billing Errors, etc. Backlogged invoices were signed, and Rena Swezey will review with Heather Lemieux. Myleen Mallari has requested the third quarter esƟmated bills be signed. Myleen Mallari has pulled out just the third quarter esƟmated bills from the first and second quarter. It will be the same payment as the last 2nd quarters. The 4th quarter will be the actual bill that will be adjusted. Rena Swezey provides the Board with a requested signature of affidavit from the resident purchasing 801 Lancaster. The resident acknowledges that he will keep the chapter lien. Once the applicaƟon ends in December a new applicaƟon will be submiƩed. The old lean will be removed, and a new lien will be put into place. Brian Laffond signed the document and Rena Swezey will return it to the aƩorney.  Status Report from Interim Principal Assessor (Rena Swezey) The kickoff meeting with Mike Tarello took place. Also in aƩendance was Heather Lemieux, Becky Boucher from the DOR, and Brian Laffond. Mike Tarello explained what he has started with and what Vision will be doing and their process. The full field review will start on January 15th. Mike Tarello stressed the importance of geƫng everything on the website. Once preliminary evaluaƟons are received, they will be posted. There is a period between preliminary cerƟficaƟon and final cerƟficaƟon where selecƟve changes can be made. The board is requesƟng Mike ===PAGE 3=== Tarello to come in for a meeƟng to review and explain how he reached the answers relaƟng to the land curve. DOR representaƟve Becky has updated the work plan from last year. It shows Ɵmelines and who is compleƟng what work. The senior work off program has ended for the year and will start again January 1st. Tax classificaƟon hearing is scheduled for March 12th and the tax bills need to go out on March 31st. There is a suggesƟon by the Board to discuss the possibility of budgeƟng for a part-Ɵme data collector with the Town Manager. Sarah Cammer has a quesƟon related to the number of neighborhoods and if Mike Tarello has any recommendaƟons or suggesƟons. Rena Swezey confirms the town currently has 5 neighborhoods. John RabbiƩ has a quesƟon about when abatements requests are due. Brian Laffond states normally the bills will go out January 1st and the abatement requests need to be back by February 1st. This year in Lunenburg the bills will go out for March 31st will be sent out and the abatement runs unƟl May 1st.  Status of Community Outreach o Senior Center (Jack RabbiƩ) The tentaƟve presentaƟon date is early March as applicaƟons are due back by April 1st. John RabbiƩ has a quesƟon relaƟng to 41C and 41C 1/2. Rena Swezey confirms that at the town meeƟng 41C was chosen because it is the most beneficial to our seniors. Sarah Cammer states that the town meeƟng approved 41C and that’s what is on record currently for this fiscal year. Jack will invesƟgate further. This would have to be proposed at the town meeƟng for them to take a vote. o Develop “How to Read Your Vision Card” (Sarah Cammer) The Town of Concord has a 2-sided document that explains the assessment process. It shows how they come up with land curves, site index, excess land. AddiƟonal there are construcƟon details on houses that include the code to grade factor and data manual. Sarah Cammer requests the board members review and provide feedback. ===PAGE 4===  Status of requests for improved collaboraƟon with Town Manager o Insert for Q3 Property Tax Bills There is a finalized insert that both Myleen Mallari and Heather Lemieux have reviewed. o Future RFP Development  Status of Website improvements (Jack RabbiƩ) The Board suggests creaƟng a secƟon enƟtled assessors reference materials. This can include links and videos. John RabbiƩ shares that there is a video from UMass about taxes and how taxaƟon works. John Rabbit confirms that this video can be made Lunenburg friendly. Sarah Cammer suggests adding the video about the levy and the 2 ½ percent and how new tax growth works with the levy. Rena Swezey suggests sƟcking to the MAAO informaƟon. Brian Laffond requests John RabbiƩ inform the board about what is being rolled out at different Ɵmes.  CAI – Currently we “freeze” Property Record Card as of January 1 each year There was a discussion about the property record cards being updated more frequently. Rena Swezey shares this can be done on a quarterly basis but the changes to CAI are very specific. Rena Swezey will discuss with Mike Tarello and make a recommendaƟon to the Board.  Review Property Cards for recent abatement requests / InvesƟgate differences John RabbiƩ has reviewed 10 property cards and condos. Brian Laffond states that condominiums do not value the building separately from the land and it is built into the sales value. Rena Swezey states that if someone is buying a condo, they are only buying the unit and the land is common. Rena Swezey will start by looking at vacant land sales to get an idea of how much vacant land is worth. o Assessment ReconciliaƟon – Sample Findings (Sarah Cammer) This was not discussed.  Discuss response to extensive ciƟzen quesƟons. - i.e. Derner, Lucks, BlaƩ. o Determine Work-plan Some resident quesƟons have been answered but they need to be consolidated.  CorrecƟve AcƟon Request proposal (includes Tracking / Closure) John RabbiƩ proposes they uƟlize the ISO 18094 format and build a database to support.  PotenƟal for ad-hoc ciƟzen commiƩee(s) to aid board members ===PAGE 5=== A proposal was received from a resident in the town. Some of the proposed projects can’t be completed due to confidenƟality. This topic will be added to the agenda for the next meeƟng. NEW BUSINESS Sarah suggests asking for access to the MicrosoŌ database and a one drive so the Board can share documents. FUTURE AGENDA TOPICS  Review and Approve Senior / Veterans ExempƟons o Discuss implicaƟons for FY2024  Review and Approve Chapter Land ExempƟons  SoŌware – Xembly discussion  Schedule Future Zoom Session for Public Q&A with Nate Cramer  Staffing recommendaƟons o Brian Laffond and Rena Swezey will discuss further. NEXT MEETING  January 8, 2024 - Note: at Senior Center  January 22, 2024 - Closed meeƟng for exempƟons and chapter land signing.  January 29, 2024  February 5, 2024  February 19, 2024- TentaƟve date CLOSING COMMENTS  Public No public comment.  Board Rena Swezey requests a meeƟng with the Board to sign all the exempƟons and chapter lands. These are not public so it must be a closed meeƟng. MulƟple signatures are needed. ADJOURN MoƟon to adjourn and enter into ExecuƟve Session, not to return to Open Session aŌer exiƟng ExecuƟve Session by Sarah Cammer, seconded by John RabbiƩ. The meeƟng closed at 8:47 PM.