The Town of Belchertown is seeking a registered voter to fill a vacant seat on the Board of Assessors through a joint appointment by the Board of Assessors and the Select Board, per MGL Chapter 41, Section 11. The appointed individual will serve the remainder of the term and carry out all duties of the office until the next annual election in May 2026.
Under MGL Chapter 59, the Board of Assessors is responsible for assessing all taxes, classifying and valuing all real and personal property, and setting the annual tax rate.
📌 To Apply: Please submit a letter listing your qualifications to the Office of the Select Board at:
📬 One South Main Street, P.O. Box 670, Belchertown, MA 01007
📧 or email: selectboard[at]belchertown.org
🕓 Deadline: Friday, July 25, 2025, at 4:00 p.m.
📞 For more information, contact:
• Jay Whelihan, Director of Assessments – (413) 323-0413, jwhelihan[at] belchertown.org
• Steve Williams, Town Manager – (413) 323-0403
We encourage interested residents to consider serving their community in this important role.
To see this posting on our website, click here and then scroll down to “Board of Assessors.”
If you want to geek out, take a look at some recent Board of Assessors minutes to give you a better sense of what the board does.
What does the Board of Assessors Do?
The Board of Assessors plays a vital role in ensuring fairness and accuracy in local taxation. Their work impacts every property owner in Belchertown. Here’s a breakdown of their key responsibilities:
1. Property Valuation
They determine the value of all real estate and personal property in town. This includes:
- Residential homes
- Commercial and industrial properties
- Personal property used in business (e.g., equipment)
These values are updated annually and fully re-evaluated every five years in accordance with state regulations.
2. Setting the Tax Rate
While the Select Board sets the budget, the Assessors calculate the annual tax rate based on total property values and the town’s approved expenditures.
3. Maintaining Property Records
They keep up-to-date data on land, buildings, and property features, ensuring that assessments reflect accurate property information.
4. Processing Exemptions and Abatements
The board reviews and decides on:
- Exemptions (for seniors, veterans, disabled persons, etc.)
- Abatements (requests for reductions in property valuation and tax)
5. Ensuring Compliance with State Laws
They follow Massachusetts General Laws (MGL Chapter 59) and work closely with the state’s Department of Revenue to stay in compliance.
6. Supporting Taxpayers
The board provides guidance and transparency to residents about how assessments work and how they can appeal or apply for relief if needed.
