Assessors

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Assessors Disclosure Notice

The Town of Wilbraham (www.wilbraham-ma.gov) has completed its Fiscal Year 2022 five-year revaluation of all real and personal property in the community. The Massachusetts Department of Revenue has granted the Assessors permission to disclose the new property values while pending Preliminary Certification from the Massachusetts Bureau of Local Assessment. These proposed assessed values reflect the estimated full market value of properties as of a valuation date of January 1, 2021 based on recent construction data, income data, and comparable sales from within the community over the prior year.

The Assessors’ Office has posted a copy of all town wide assessments for review. The proposed property assessments are available for public review during the public disclosure period of Monday November 22^nd through Tuesday November 30^th inclusive. Listings will be available at the ASSESSORS’ OFFICE located at 240 Springfield Street during regular business hours. Additionally, Final assessments are posted at /DocumentCenter/View/1832/2022-Preliminary-Values

Inquiries about the new proposed assessments may be directed to (413) 596-2800 x 209 or our email address at assessors@wilbraham-ma.gov Wilbraham town hall is open 8:30am to 4:30pm Monday through Friday.

Department Overview

The Assessors are required by Massachusetts law to value all real and personal property in the Town of Wilbraham. They may perform this work by utilizing their own staff or a professional appraisal firm. The Assessors Office makes use of computer software as a tool to maintain values and assist with the multitude of calculations required in their work.

Calculations & Valuations

Each year, the Assessors must calculate the current total valuations of all real and personal property in Wilbraham. After the Town Meeting process, the Assessors know the amount needed to effectively manage the Town. The Assessors prepare a "recapitulation sheet" that shows all the different revenue sources available in the upcoming fiscal year. Once the recapitulation sheet is complete, the Department of Revenue reviews all information contained in the report and will certify the tax rate upon approval of the Commissioner of Revenue.

Valuations in Massachusetts are based on "full and fair cash value." Every five years, the Assessors must review all values to determine that they represent full and fair cash value. These values are submitted to the Massachusetts Department of Revenue for certification. This is commonly called a "revaluation" or a "quinquennial certification."

The Assessors also have a responsibility for the motor vehicle excise tax bills originated by the Massachusetts Registry of Motor Vehicles. The Assessors grant abatements and answer any questions regarding excise tax.

Promoting Financial Management

The Assessors have a key role in promoting effective financial management in the Town of Wilbraham. By keeping values at the market standard, the Assessors aid in maximizing the resources available to fund the municipal services expected by Wilbraham residents.