By Matt Hersh
Staff Writer

After a unanimous vote by selectmen, Salem’s tax rate will jump 6.6 percent from last year.

The rate, which was set by the state Department of Revenue Administration at $12.62 per $1,000 of assessed value, is a decrease from last year’s $22.06 but it won’t lower tax bills.

Since the town went through a revaluation this year, many properties have increased in value, which may lead to higher tax bills for some.

This means that someone owning a home now valued at $250,000 will pay $647 more in taxes than they did last year.

At the Monday, Oct. 30, board of selectmen meeting, Town Manager Henry LaBranche presented the rate and discussed its implications.

LaBranche said the town is expected to conduct a revaluation every five years to keep property values updated to reflect the market.

Still, some concern was raised by Selectman Ron Belanger that the recent property assessments may have incorrectly valued some houses.

Belanger said several residents have contacted him to tell him that their properties aren’t what is listed on the assessment.

“I have people coming up to me that have two-bedroom houses but the assessment says they have three,” Belanger told selectmen.

LaBranche said he recognizes the concerns raised by some residents and encourages them to appeal their assessment if it is incorrect.

Belanger said selectmen and other town officials have the responsibility of informing the public about how to file an appeal.

“Not everyone understands that piece of paper,” he said. LaBranche said Norman Pelletier, the chief assessor will be open to sitting down with any concerned residents to discuss their assessments.

The town has set aside $300,000 to help offset potential abatement costs, LaBranche said.