Property owners in Milton are facing higher valuations this year, a shift that town officials expect will trigger a wave of tax abatement applications before the upcoming February deadline. During a brief session on Wednesday evening, the Board of Assessors reviewed the impact of rising home values and the resulting financial relief programs available to residents, including a key senior tax exemption capped at a $180,000 income threshold.

Chief Appraiser Charlie reported that while the office is currently holding about 15 abatement applications, a surge is expected as the February 1 filing deadline approaches. Taxes will drive the volume up, and values did increase this year, Charlie told the board. Board member Brian Bennett requested a proactive heads-up once a critical mass of applications is ready for review to ensure the board stays ahead of the workload.

The board processed several personal tax exemptions, including approvals for blind residents and a 100% disabled veteran. A significant portion of the discussion centered on the Community Preservation Act (CPA) exemption for low-to-moderate income seniors. While several applications were granted for those falling under the $180,000 income limit, others were denied for exceeding that cap. One specific deferral application was denied following the recent passing of the applicant, as the board noted such benefits cannot continue for heirs once a spouse is no longer present in the home. In a moment of transparency, Bennett noted for the record that an applicant sharing his last name was no relation, stating, I don't know the individual.

To streamline the processing of these tax documents and weekly excise tax sign-offs, the board is transitioning to an electronic signature system via Adobe. This move, requested by the Town Treasurer, will allow board members to authorize documents remotely rather than visiting Town Hall in person. Bennett expressed support for the efficiency, asking for a clear timeline on when documents would be distributed. Just let us know the schedule. If they come out on Thursdays or Fridays, just tell us and say, 'I want this signed by a certain time,' Bennett noted. Board member Bob Gaskin, who joined the meeting remotely, agreed to the new workflow, adding, I trust the Board's judgment. If my signatures aren't required to move it along, I'll sign the next time there's a stack.

The board also reviewed the senior overlay program, which provides tax credits to seniors who perform work for the town. Officials noted that the program remains under-utilized, with several vacancies remaining. I don't even think we filled the program this year. I haven't seen it full in a couple of years, Charlie remarked, while Bennett recalled a time when the Town Hall lobby was consistently staffed by program participants.