ORANGE — A resident has proposed unseating the appointed three-member Board of Assessors and appointing new assessors “because of the performance in that office.”

Denise Andrews, who formerly served as state representative for the 2nd Franklin District, appeared before the Orange Selectboard at its June 26 meeting to float the idea and said she had earlier that day reached out to Cynthia Brown, who chairs the assessors board, to share concerns and mention that she planned to broach the subject at the meeting.

“And I am also concerned about all the moving pieces and parts that happened over the last two years and what is and is not getting done in that office,” she said.

Andrews declined to elaborate on her specific concerns about the assessors’ work when asked by a reporter for more information.

“We need to respect the process,” the former state representative said, adding that the next Board of Assessors meeting is scheduled for July 8. “I think it’s best to just let things unfold.”

In response to Andrews’ proposal, the Selectboard agree to put the matter on the agenda for a future meeting, with the next scheduled for July 10.

The Assessors Office handles matters related to real estate and taxes. In addition to Brown, the other members are Randi Bjorlin and Lisa Elliott. Attempts to reach Brown have been unsuccessful.

Town Clerk Nancy Blackmer explained the three assessors are appointed by the Selectboard and one term expires each year. She said Elliott is the newest member, with the board having previously operated with only two members. Blackmer said she feels it would be difficult to find willing replacements for the assessors.

Reach Domenic Poli at: dpoli@recorder.com or
413-930-4120.