Wayland assessors approve 59 motor vehicle abatements, welcome new staff appraiser

WAYLAND -- November 7, 2022, Wayland assessors welcome new appraiser and clear $10,255 in motor vehicle abatements. Meeting Nov. 7 under Chair Zachariah Ventress with Vice-Chair Philip Parks and member Steven Klitgord, the board unanimously approved 59 calendar-2022 motor vehicle excise abatements totaling $10,255.18, with no denials. Members introduced new staffer Tamara Keith, a licensed appraiser since 2008, who told the board, "I don't have a municipal background, but I've learned a lot in the three weeks." The principal assessor said Vision Government Solutions consultant Cindy Cosgrove is finalizing FY23 residential values and warned that assessments still reflect a frenzied 2021 sales market, "it hurts to be the messenger." The River's Edge rental project alone moved from zero to $22 million in valuation, helping push estimated new growth above $750,000. The board tentatively set its tax classification hearing for Dec. 5.