On May 9, 2025, the Rochester City Council convened for a budget retreat, focusing on critical issues within the city's assessing department. A significant topic of discussion was the proposed five-year contract with San Souci Associates, aimed at enhancing property valuation services, particularly for waste management properties. The contract, valued at $30,000 annually, is expected to streamline operations and provide specialized expertise that the current staff lacks.

The assessing department's budget also included a request for an additional staff member to implement a cyclical inspection program. This program is essential for maintaining accurate property assessments, as it involves regular inspections of a portion of the community to ensure that property data remains current and reflective of any changes. Currently, many properties in Rochester have not been inspected for over a decade, leading to potential inaccuracies in property valuations.

The need for a cyclical inspection program was emphasized as a means to improve data quality and fairness in property assessments. The absence of such a program has previously led to complaints from residents regarding perceived inequities in property evaluations. The council discussed the importance of conducting these inspections to avoid being compelled to undertake a full revaluation, which can be costly and disruptive.

Additionally, council members raised concerns about the timing of revaluations, suggesting that the city should consider more frequent assessments in response to significant market fluctuations. The discussion highlighted the need for a proactive approach to property valuation, particularly in light of recent trends showing substantial increases in property values.

In conclusion, the budget retreat underscored the Rochester City Council's commitment to improving property assessment practices through strategic partnerships and staffing enhancements. The anticipated next steps include finalizing the contract with San Souci Associates and addressing the staffing needs to implement the cyclical inspection program effectively. These measures aim to ensure fair and accurate property assessments, ultimately benefiting the community as a whole.