An Act Establishing The Connecticut Appeals Board For Property Valuation.
The legislation will significantly alter the process of property tax assessment appeals within Connecticut. By creating a dedicated appeals board, the bill aims to streamline and standardize the resolution of disputes regarding property valuations. Municipalities will still maintain their roles in assessing properties; however, residents will have the alternative to appeal directly to the state-level board, potentially reducing backlogs and inconsistencies seen in local boards of assessment appeals.
SB01556 establishes the Connecticut Appeals Board for Property Valuation, a body designed to address appeals from individuals aggrieved by assessments made by municipal assessors. This board will facilitate a more structured and accessible procedure for property owners and lessees to challenge assessments impacting their taxes. Individuals claiming to be aggrieved may bring their cases to this board within two months of any assessment action, allowing for appeals to be processed outside the traditional municipal avenues previously used.
While there is support for establishing a centralized board to handle appeals, some concerns may arise regarding the nature of the new process. Notably, there is potential anxiety regarding the board's composition and its ability to fairly adjudicate appeals given that it consists of members appointed by the governor. Critics may argue that this process could lead to partisanship or a lack of adequate local representation. Furthermore, the bill specifies that appeals cannot be considered if another court case regarding the same issue is pending, which may limit options for some individuals.