Live reporting: Tax Classification Hearing

6. HEARINGS
Franklin Tax Classification Hearing
https://www.franklinma.gov/sites/franklinma/files/mai/files/12-4-19_memo_tax_rate_hearing.pdf


Chris Sandini, Kevin Doyle, Chris Feeley

factor of 1 = uniform rate across the property classes

no land classified as open space per State Land use 

calculated increase of approx $178 for avg residence with reduction in rate of 15 cents from prior year

new growth of $127M for this tax year
almost 2.5% growth (which helps establish the tax base)

Chandler - clarification questions on exemptions and forms
to be found on the Board of Assessors page
https://www.franklinma.gov/board-assessors

Jones - impressed with the 5B valuation of the Town
For the single tax rate

Bissanti - I don't remember addressing a dual tax rate
C Feeley - about 14 years ago there was a Councilor who did propose a dual tax rate; it was not passed

Pellegri - do we know if we have everyone who would be eligible?
Doyle - we did a mailing some years ago, that didn't urn up much; we work closely with the Senior Center and Veterans Agent to ensure we cover all we hear of; we work with Karen Alves to prepare a summary flyer

Hellen - we'll coordinate an update and social media blast to make sure folks are aware of it

Dellorco - once applied do they need to re-apply?
Feeley - re-apply yes, but once they have, we notify them of what they need to do

Mercer - I support the single tax rate, one of our strengths in attracting business

hearing closed

moving to first of the four resolutions


10a. LEGISLATION FOR ACTION
Resolution 19-80: Tax Classification Residential Factor (Motion to Approve Resolution 19-80 - Majority Vote (5))

motion to approve, seconded, passed 8-0

10b. LEGISLATION FOR ACTION
Resolution 19-81: Tax Classification - Open Space Exemption (Motion to Approve Resolution 19-81 - Majority Vote (5))
motion to approve, seconded, passed 8-0

10c. LEGISLATION FOR ACTION
Resolution 19-82: Tax Classification Small Business Exemption (Motion to Approve Resolution 19-82 - Majority Vote (5))
motion to approve, seconded, passed 8-0

10d. LEGISLATION FOR ACTION
Resolution 19-83: Tax Classification Residential Property Exemption (Motion to Approve Resolution 19-83 - Majority Vote (5))

motion to approve, seconded, passed 8-0

( 2 min recess )
short break to allow for signature of the docs as approved