The City of Waukesha's Board of Review convened on July 29, 2025, to address property assessment disputes, focusing on the process for taxpayers to contest valuations set by the city assessor's office. The meeting began with an overview of the procedures, emphasizing that taxpayers would present their evidence first, followed by the city’s defense of its assessments.
The board clarified that the burden of proof lies with the taxpayer, who must provide compelling evidence to challenge the assessor's valuation. This process is crucial, as the board is legally obligated to uphold the assessor's valuation unless sufficient evidence is presented to suggest otherwise.
During the meeting, a taxpayer named Gary stated his belief that the assessed value of his property at 348 Wisconsin should be adjusted to $7.44, significantly lower than the current assessment of $727,600, which includes improvements totaling $553,500. The board encouraged open dialogue, allowing for questions and rebuttals from both parties involved.
The Board of Review will deliberate after all testimonies are heard and render a decision on the property valuation. This meeting underscores the importance of transparency and due process in property tax assessments, ensuring that taxpayers have a fair opportunity to contest their valuations.