100 percent assessment could return in Town in 2008
by JESSICA L. FINCH Associate Editor

It appears the Town of Amherst may be able to return to a 100 percent assessment in 2008.

The Town Board passed a resolution at Monday's meeting to send a memorandum of understanding to the State of New York Office of Real Property Services, as well as a six-year plan for reinspection, reappraisal and maintaining assessments at 100 percent on an annual basis.

The funding for the 100 percent reassessment program was cut in 2007 after Supervisor Satish Mohan suggested it could be done for about half the cost.

"Other towns are paying $5 per parcel," Mohan said.

The Town of Amherst had been paying GAR Associates $500,000, about $15 per parcel.

Mohan estimates the town can maintain the program at $210,000, the amount awarded annually by the state.

A request for proposals will be posted for local, regional and state appraising companies. Mohan said that last year GAR Associates had sent a bid in the $210,000 range.

Council Member Bill Kindel questioned how the town planned to pay for a contract, saying the budget was already $300,000 short.

"We have the money this year to do what I am suggesting," Mohan said.

The resolution passed on Monday is a request for proposal but does not guarantee a contract.

Bids, for 100 percent reassessment (field reviews and verifications) are due on June 29.

The Town Board also appointed a deputy attorney following the death of Mark Jasen in May.

Christopher P. Moen, 55, an attorney in Williamsville, was appointed by a vote of 4-3. He owns Moen Law Offices and is a member of the New York State and Erie County bar associations.

In other business, the board:

+ Approved a special use permit at 2320 Millersport Highway to allow for a Tim Hortons to open. Because of the B-3 zoning a special permit was needed to allow for drive-through service.

+ Tabled for two weeks a request to rezone 1950 Sweet Home Road from R-3 to OB-Office Building for a Tim Hortons. The public hearing drew discussion from both sides.

The next Town Board meeting will be held at 7 p.m. Monday, July 2 at Town Hall, 5583 Main St., Williamsville.