Agenda Item Request
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Authorize the reduction of board members on the Cumberland County Board of Assessment Review from seven (7) to five (5) members by eliminating the two (2) currently vacant seats, effective immediately.
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Requested Action or Motion
The Cumberland County Board of Assessment Review (BAR) and staff request that the Commissioners vote to reduce the number of members of the County BAR to 5 members.
• Motion to decrease the size of the Cumberland County Board of Assessment Review from seven (7) to five (5) members by eliminating the two (2) currently vacant seats, effective immediately.
Background and Purpose of Request
The County Commissioners may establish a county BAR of either 5 or 7 members pursuant to 36 M.R.S. § 844-M. At least one member must be a licensed real estate appraiser and other members should be generally familiar with property valuation and appraisal techniques. Finding volunteers knowledgeable in this specialized area is difficult and has resulted in chronic vacancies on the board. Reducing the number of members of the BAR will help alleviate issues the BAR has faced due to difficulties with meeting quorum requirements.
By eliminating the two vacant seats, the appointed board members currently serving on the board will remain in their positions and their terms will remain unchanged. Terms will be due to expire as follows: three members June 30, 2027; one member June 30, 2028; and one member June 30, 2029.
Requestor
James Gailey, County Manager
Effective Date if Applicable
Immediately