New York’s property assessment system is complex. Participants called for a focus on educating the public and elected officials about the tax system as a way to help in the implementation of the annual reassessment program. Town boards and school boards rely on the work of the local assessor, yet many of them do not understand the equalization rate and how it affects the taxes that are levied in their jurisdiction. Likewise, according to participants, the public does not always understand the role and responsibility of the local assessor or county director. Helping to explain the system to town and school boards and to the general public, participants said, would enable them to conduct annual reassessments with less confusion and opposition.

Need a method of generating understanding of New York’s property tax system. Participants said that property owners “fear” reassessments because of the threat of increased taxes. Educating the public about the need to improve tax equity and the role of the local assessor and county director, through the media and to the public directly, would help them more successfully implement the program and promote better understanding of the real property tax system in general.

Participants stated the lack of understanding of the assessor’s role and responsibilities resulted in mistrust for their position. Continuous reassessments without strong public support and education from state and local officials could negatively impact public perception of the tax system and the assessment community.

Build support and cooperation of elected officials. Participants said that educating their locally elected officials (city, town and school boards) on both the general role of the assessor and the specifics of the new annual reassessment program is necessary for the program to be implemented successfully. One participant said, “my office is less respected than that of the local dog catcher.” They wanted help convincing officials of the importance of their office and profession, and in turn, the merits of this program, thus gaining key support throughout the reassessment process.