Politics & Government
Town Manager: Reassessment Notices Will Be Mailed in November
Homeowners should not use new assessment to calculate tax bill, since the mill rate will be changed based on the total value of the grand list.
Ron Van Winkle reviewed some upcoming tax and financial matters Tuesday night as the West Hartford Town Council held its last meeting before the November 8 municipal election.
Of particular importance to homeowners is the fact that this is a reassessment year. "We're beginning the process of reassessment, and notices should be mailed in mid November," Van Winkle said in the Town Manager's Report.
"The good news is that housing prices have not changed dramatically in West Hartford," Van Winkle said. Town management will work to inform residents what the reassessment will mean for their actual tax bill once the total value of the town's grand list has been calculated.
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"Once we reassess, the mill rate moves. Don't compare the current rate to your new assessment," he cautioned.
In response to a question from Council member Steven Adler, Van Winkle advised that the appeals process for those who wish to question their reassessment is simlar to what has been done in the past. The first stage of appeal is an informal session in the assessor's office, and details about scheduling that appointment are provided with the reassessment notice.
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He also clarified that translators are available to assist those who may have difficulty understanding the reassessment notice due to a language barrier.
Council member Denise Hall asked Van Winkle for an update on the town's trash contract. He reported that several viable options are being considered, and a recommendation will likely be made by mid November.
West Hartford has contracted with the Connecticut Resources Recovery Authority (CRRA) since 1984, but is also considering a proposal from Convanta Energy. Either option is likely to generate overall savings to the town.
Van Winkle also advised that the deadline is near for businesses to declare their personal property. Forms, which are available on the Town of West Hartford's website, are due on Nov. 1.
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