The City of Somerville Board of Assessors consists of three members.  These members are appointed by the Mayor and subject to confirmation by the Board of Aldermen.  As per Section 38 of the City Charter, members of the Board of Assessors serve three year staggered terms thereby one term each year requires reappointment by the Mayor and confirmation by the Board of Aldermen.  Vacancies occurring in the Board may be filled in the same manner, but only for the unexpired term.

Under the provisions of Massachusetts General Laws, Chapters fifty-eight to sixty-five C, the Board of Assessors fall under the jurisdiction of the Commissioner of Revenue who may revise rules, regulations, and guidelines, as deemed necessary to establish minimum standards of assessment performance.

Before assessment values, new growth, and tax rates are set, they must be certified by the Department of Revenue on an annual basis.  On a triennial basis, the Department of Revenue will send an audit team to the City.  The audit team will evaluate the methodologies and the Board of Assessors must meet specific statistical criteria in order that the City is certified for Revaluation.

Staff Contact:  Marc, Levye, Acting Chief Assessor-Chairman Board of Assessors, 617-625-6600 ext. 3105.