The New Ipswich Select Board mulled over several proposed warrant articles in March to implement new tax exemptions – including one for the taxation of solar panels.
The Select Board met with the Board of Assessors during its meeting Tuesday so the two boards could discuss the assessing boards suggestions for possible tax exemptions or credits the town could implement – which requires a vote at town meeting.
The first proposal has to do with the value of solar panels. Historically, the town has not included solar panels in its assessments, but learned earlier this year that by law, they should be assessed and taxed, causing a stir among panel owners and those looking to install.
The Board of Assessors responded to the concerns heard at one of their meetings earlier this year by researching other towns that have implemented a solar exemption, and recommending to the board that they present a warrant article in March that would exempt solar arrays worth up to $20,000.
The board also discussed a tax credit for veterans. The town currently has a tax credit for veterans of $500 per year, which is given to those that served at least 90 days and were discharged honorably during times of active war.
However, the legislature recently passed a bill that allows towns to give the credit to all veterans who have served, regardless of the time of their service.
The third suggested exemption is for those with disabilities. The town has the ability to set the exemption at their will, and the Board of Assessors suggested that the town implement an exemption that is equal to the elderly tax exemption.
By statute, a resident can apply for the elderly tax exemption, or the disability exemption, but not both at the same time.
The Select Board took the proposed articles under consideration, but made no decision on Tuesday whether or not to include the articles on March’s ballot.
Ashley Saari can be reached at 924-7172 ext. 244 or asaari@ledgertranscript.com. She’s on Twitter @AshleySaariMLT.