Increasingly, Assessors use computer software as a tool to maintain values and assist with the multitude of calculations required in their work. Every three years Assessors must submit these values to the state Department of Revenue for certification. Assessors must also maintain the values in the years between certifications. Assessors also have a responsibility for the motor vehicle excise tax bills originated by the State Registry of Motor Vehicles. They update the bills to reflect recent changes and then pass them on to the municipal Collector for distribution.
Assessors grant abatements and answer any questions regarding excise tax bills.
Assessors, then, have a major role in promoting effective financial management of their communities. By keeping values at the market management of their communities. By keeping values at the market standard, the Assessors assist in maximizing the resources available to fund the municipal services expected by residents. Assessors must collect, record, and analyze a great deal of information property and market characteristics in order to estimate the fair market value of all taxable properties in their communities. Properties such as churches and educational institutions are also valued even though they are exempt from taxation.