Assessing Department

Overview

The Assessors’ Office administers all laws and regulations related to property tax assessment in accordance with Massachusetts General Laws (Ch. 59, 60A, 61, 61A, 61B, 121A) and various legislative acts. The department is responsible for the appraisal of approximately 11,000 parcels, including residential, commercial, industrial, utility, and personal property.

Each year, the office also processes more than 30,000 motor vehicle excise tax bills and establishes the assessed value of real and personal property for the upcoming fiscal year.

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Role in the Budget Process

The Town’s annual budget is determined by the Select Board, Finance Committee, and Town Meeting.

In late fall, the Assessors’ Office presents property value statistics at the Tax Classification Hearing in the Great Hall and recommends a tax shift to the Select Board.

Once the Select Board sets the tax shift, tax rates are calculated by dividing the levy of each class by its total valuation. The Assessors then commit the tax amounts—including sewer betterments and water/sewer/trash liens—to the Treasurer/Collector for billing and collection.

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Abatements & Exemptions

The Assessors’ Office administers all abatement and exemption programs authorized by the Massachusetts Legislature. Exemptions may apply to:

• Veterans with at least 10% service-connected disability
• Income-eligible seniors
• Surviving spouses
• Individuals who are blind
• Individuals facing hardship or infirmity

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Appellate Tax Board Representation

The department prepares and presents cases before the Massachusetts Appellate Tax Board to defend property valuations.

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Daily Operations

The Staff works closely with taxpayers, planners, developers, builders, and real estate professionals. The office also oversees the property revaluation process to ensure compliance with state laws and to support sound fiscal planning.

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Mission Statement

Our mission is to value real and personal property efficiently, fairly, and accurately in accordance with Massachusetts law; administer motor vehicle excise, exemption, and abatement programs; and respond promptly and courteously to the public.

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Contact Us

📞 (781) 341-1300 ext. 9227

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NEW TAX RATE FY26

FY26 Tax Rates per thousand in valuation:

Residential:

$11.81

Commercial, Industrial, Personal Property:

$21.10

Please click here to view the tax rate history.