N.J. weighs changes to property assessment process

New Jersey lawmakers are considering a measure that would change the property assessment process.

The legislation sponsored by Assemblyman Dan Benson would create an assessment system at the county level. While it would still be run by municipal assessors, they would all use the same software.

“That means everybody is talking the same language. It means that assessments can be done very similarly,” said Benson. “It makes it a lot easier for dealing with appeals, dealing with changes each year in the values of property.”

Benson said administrative costs could be reduced if municipalities agree to participate in a county system. The legislation would also change the date for assessment appeals so their outcomes would be determined before local property tax rates are calculated.

Benson said that would help towns avoid unexpected revenue losses.