March 24, 2008    

Dear Fairlee Property Owners, 

Fairlee has received notice from the Vermont Tax Department that our Common Level of Appraisal (CLA) has dropped from 93.54 in 2007 to 78.54 for 2008. The impact of this would be a substantial increase in the State Education Property Tax Rates on all Fairlee properties. In order to decrease the education tax rates and the corresponding tax burden, the Board of Listers has decided to conduct a statistical reappraisal of all properties this year. A statistical reappraisal will increase our CLA and postpone the necessity for a full town-wide reappraisal for a number of years thus saving taxpayers considerable expense.

 A statistical reappraisal will not require the inspection of all properties. The Listers will be calling to set up inspections on properties that have been improved, modified or sold since our last inspection. If you have made any major improvements or modifications to your buildings (ie: remodeled kitchen, new bathroom, finished basement, new roof or siding), we would appreciate you contacting the Listers’ Office.

 When the statistical reappraisal is completed this summer, you will be sent a Change of Appraisal Notice indicating the assessed values of all properties and will be given the opportunity to discuss your new assessment.  

As in the past, we appreciate your understanding and cooperation. Please call if you have any questions.

 Sincerely,

The Fairlee Board of Listers