The taxes are too high. Soon I will not be able to afford to live in Dudley. Why are you raising my taxes every year?

The assessors do not raise or lower taxes.  The assessors report market value.  The tax increase or decrease is determined by the budgetary requirements of the Board of Selectmen to run the town.  Rising or falling assessed values do not mean rising or falling tax bills.  The increase or decrease in taxes seen by the property owner is a direct result of the increase or decrease in the budget.  The budget increase or decrease determines the tax increase or decrease.  Individual property owners may see an increase in their assessments due to renovations, additions or improvements that would cause an increase in their tax liability.  The primary reason for a tax increase or decrease is based on the budget requirements of the Board of Selectmen to fund town operations.