Board of Assessors

The Board of Assessors is responsible for administering Massachusetts property tax laws equitably by estimating the fair market value of all real and personal property in Wakefield. The office is responsible for adhering to strict certification requirements of the Department of Revenue. The Board of Assessors is responsible for the calculation of the annual tax rate necessary to raise the tax dollars, in accordance with Proposition 2 ½, to fund the Town’s annual operating budget.

Composition and Term of Office

There shall be a Board of Assessors composed of three (3) members elected to terms of three (3) years each, so arranged that the term of one (1) member expires each year.

Powers and Duties

The Board of Assessors shall have the powers and duties set forth for such Boards by the laws of the Commonwealth, by this charter, by by-law, or by other vote of Town Meeting.

Staff

The Board of Assessors shall appoint a Director of Assessments. The staff of the Board of Assessors shall be appointed by the Town Administrator, upon recommendation of the Director of Assessments.