SOUTH BERWICK
BOARD OF ASSESSORS
AUGUST 13, 2007
Chairman Suzanne Roberge called the meeting to order at 6:15pm. Councilors present included Robert Gagne, Michelle Kareckas, Norma Tutelian, and Jean Demetracopoulos. Town Manager Jeffrey A. Grossman and Assessing Agent Craig Skelton were also in attendance.
Mr. Skelton informed the Board that after doing field inspections throughout the spring he has adjusted values on 364 properties. Recent sales show that our values are at 87% of market. He added that he focused on adjusting values in neighborhoods that were below the 87%; which amounted to an increase of $8.2 million. Total growth is up by only $10.9 million.
Mrs. Kareckas questioned the amount of last year’s overlay. Mr. Grossman explained that last year the overlay was approximately $223,000. $27,500 was used for abatements with the remainder going back to the general fund. Mr. Grossman added that the undesignated fund balance needs to be rebuilt after years of using it to offset the budget.
Ms. Roberge added that the fund balance will affect bonding.
On a motion by Mrs. Kareckas, seconded by Mrs. Tutelian, it was unanimously voted to set the tax rate for fiscal year 2007/2008 at 13.35 per 1000 of valuation.
On a motion by Mr. Gagne, seconded by Mrs. Demetracopoulos, it was unanimously voted to sign the tax commitment for fiscal year 2007/2008.
On a motion by Mr. Gagne, seconded by Mrs. Tutelian, it was unanimously voted to adjourn the meeting at 6:29pm.
Attest:
Barbara Bennett
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